Carrie H. Kennedy

Many people--including some mental health professionals and service members themselves--have the misconception that military deployment is highly likely to cause posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This book gives practitioners a more nuanced understanding of military stress reactions and related mental health concerns, from transient adjustment problems to clinical disorders. Drawing on expert knowledge of military environments and culture, Carrie H. Kennedy provides vital guidance for evidence-based assessment, intervention, and prevention. Kennedy emphasizes that overdependence on the diagnosis of PTSD can lead to suboptimal care, and shows how to tailor treatment to each service member's or veteran's needs. A crucial addition to any practitioner's library, the book is illustrated with numerous case vignettes.

As a military service member, you amp rsquo re looking forward to life after deployment and being back home among family and friends. But adjusting to amp quot normal amp quot life again can bring its own challenges. You amp rsquo re not the same person you were when you left on deployment. This book, written by military psychologists Moore and Kennedy, is a down-to-earth guide that amp rsquo s full of practical advice. The authors talk straight about both the joys and challenges of returning home, advising that one size does NOT fit all when it comes to making the transition. They share thoughtful, constructive tips for dealing with unwanted surprises like relationship break-ups, financial problems, and kids who are suddenly strangers. Experiences shared by many returning service members, like sleep disturbances, anger management, and learning to live with amp quot hyperstartle, amp quot are also discussed. For those whose transition has been more difficult, chapters on identifying the signs of PTSD, living with disturbing memories, and seeking relief from suicidal thoughts are particularly valuable. A final appendix is the definitive guide to support services for military members, with resources on everything from kid amp rsquo s books to financial management websites.