However, more recent research suggests an erosion of the healthy soldier effect in veterans of contemporary conflicts. This has been referred to as the ‘healthy soldier effect’, resulting from the high physical health standards of entry into the armed forces. Veterans have been observed to have a lower mortality risk relative to the general population. However, some members will leave the armed forces facing health and wellbeing needs related to their military service. For the majority of serving members, life in the armed forces has a positive effect on wellbeing. Serving in the armed forces potentially affects many aspects of a person’s life. In the United States (US), for example, the Department of Defence estimates that there will be over 200,000 new veterans each year. Veterans (defined here as ex-members of the armed forces) are a growing population in Australia, the United Kingdom (UK) and other countries, particularly since the return of veterans from the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts. It is suggested that understanding key factors, such as demographic factors and factors relating to military service, can support improved service provision for veterans. ConclusionsĪ key finding of the review is the interconnection of the mental, physical, and social health of veterans, highlighting the importance that an integrated approach to veterans’ wellbeing is adopted. While there was limited information on prevalence rates of physical, mental and social health problems in veterans compared to civilian populations, the reviews demonstrated the interconnection between these domains and the effect of demographic and military service factors. The reviews reported on a range of mental, physical and social health problems affecting veterans. ResultsĪ total of 21 systematic reviews were included. The databases Embase, Medline, Cinahl, PubMed, Web of Science and Cochrane Database were searched for systematic reviews reporting on veterans’ physical, mental and social wellbeing published in English in peer-reviewed journals. The current paper reports on the findings of a rapid review of the literature on the health and wellbeing needs of veterans, commissioned by the Australian Department of Veterans’ Affairs to inform future programs and services. Such negative consequences, alongside the growing veteran population, indicate the need for greater exploration of veterans’ physical, mental and social wellbeing. However, the type, intensity and duration of service, along with the transition from fulltime military to civilian life, may have a negative effect on veterans’ wellbeing. For the majority of serving members, life in the military has a positive effect on wellbeing.
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