Invisible Wounds of War: Psychological and Cognitive Injuries, Their Consequences, and Services to Assist Recovery

Data collection for this study took place from April 2007-January 2008. A critical review of the literature was done on the prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder, major depresion, & traumatic brain injury & their short- & long-term consequences among American service members & veterans who served in Afghanistan or Iraq. Health status & symptoms (including suicidal behaviours) were assessed as was the utilization of & barriers to care. Existing treatment programs were reviewed & focus groups were conducted with service members & their spouses. A forecast is made of the economic costs of these conditions over time.