Research Shows High Levels of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Middle East Veterans

A University of Queensland-led research collaboration investigating the health of more than 14,000 Australian Defence Force (ADF) members shows high levels of post-traumatic stress disorder in Middle East Veterans.
The Middle East Area of Operations (MEAO) Health Study, undertaken by the Centre for Military and Veterans' Health, confirmed that the majority of MEAO veterans who were still serving in the ADF were physically and mentally fit before and after deployment.
However, MEAO Health Study Chief Investigator, Professor Annette Dobson, said high levels of posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms were reported by approximately 16 per cent of ex-serving personnel. This compares with just 2.7 per cent of those still serving.
Ms Dobson said it was not suprising to find that ex-serving personnel were not doing so well, as ill-health is a common reason for discharge from the military. “While it was found that overall levels of psychological distress among MEAO veterans were not high, those in direct combat roles, Army personnel, and female personnel were more likely to report symptoms,” She said.
“As in the Australian population, female veterans were also more likely to report mental health symptoms than men.  “Female veterans were less likely to feel well-supported by the military, but conversely, reported their military commitments had less impact on their children than their male counterparts.
“The Prospective Study showed that veterans did experience psychological changes and to a lesser extent, changes to physical and social health, after deployment compared with before deployment.
“This was particularly true for those in combat roles, or those operating outside the main support base. “Exposure to dust, smoke and fumes was common and was associated with reduced lung function and increased respiratory symptoms.
“Long term follow-up of MEAO veterans will be important to monitor their physical and mental health outcomes, especially as they discharge from the ADF and return to civilian life.”
The outcomes of the MEAO Health Study will help the Department of Defence and Department of Veterans' Affairs to tailor services and programs which will support Middle East veterans and help to prevent ill health in ADF personnel involved in future deployments.
The MEAO Health Study had three components including the Mortality and Cancer Incidence Study (due to be released later this year), the Census Study, undertaken by The University of Queensland and the Prospective Study, undertaken by the University of Adelaide