Veterans’ Mental Health Overview: PTSD, Readjustment, and Recovery After Service

The transition from military service to civilian life brings challenges that many veterans aren’t fully prepared for. While not all veterans develop a mental health condition, most experience some form of adjustment — whether it’s learning how to rebuild structure, manage relationships, or cope with trauma.

In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, psychologist and combat veteran Dr. Don Sanz provides an overview of the most common mental health challenges veterans face, from PTSD to survivor guilt, substance use, and difficulty adjusting to civilian routines. Drawing from both his lived experience and decades of clinical work, Dr. Sanz explains the symptoms of post-traumatic stress, how to recognize when functioning is impaired, and why early intervention is critical.

This conversation highlights the importance of awareness, compassion, and resources for veterans navigating life after service.

Primary Topics Covered:

• Why the transition from military to civilian life is so challenging
• Common adjustment issues after deployment
• How PTSD symptoms develop and impact functioning
• Four symptom clusters of PTSD: intrusion, avoidance, mood changes, and arousal
• Survivor guilt, shame, and anger in veterans
• How substance abuse can mask unaddressed trauma
• Recognizing when functioning is impaired
• Why listening to feedback from loved ones is essential
• The importance of professional help and community support
• Why not every veteran develops a mental health condition, but all need adjustment support

Timestamps:
 00:00 – Introduction to the episode and podcast mission
 01:07 – Why November episodes focus on veterans’ mental health
 02:05 – Guest introduction: Dr. Don Sanz, veteran and psychologist
 02:53 – Don’s military service and transition into psychology
 03:50 – How Vietnam trauma led him to focus on veterans’ care
 04:35 – Common struggles veterans face when returning to civilian life
 06:20 – The overwhelming challenge of readjustment
 07:03 – PTSD as the most common condition for combat veterans
 07:55 – The four PTSD symptom clusters explained
 10:03 – When PTSD becomes diagnosable and life-disrupting
 10:18 – How functioning is impaired across life areas
 11:11 – The role of feedback from family and partners
 11:43 – Why awareness and listening are essential
 11:52 – Closing reflections and thanks

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