Veteran Families with PTSD: An Insider's Perspective

Given prolonged military engagements in many parts of the world, military-related posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a significant mental health issue, especially for veterans raising children. This thesis explores the lived experiences of veterans, partners and youth, where the veteran parent has PTSD related to military service. Interview findings included the importance of parenting for veterans with PTSD, existence of strong family bonds within families and conversely, the sense of disconnection experienced in families. Implications for practice include a need for family focused practice, online support for youth, and empowering parents to be conduits of change in their families.