Psychosocial challenges and enrichment in post-9/11 Veteran reintegration: A multidimensional exploratory analysis

Mil Psychol. 2026 May 1:1-13. doi: 10.1080/08995605.2026.2659392. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Military-civilian reintegration represents a multidimensional transition, with 47 to 75% of Veterans reporting reintegration challenges. Emerging research suggests that challenges related to purpose in life, social connection, and financial stability are associated with suicide risk and broader well-being outcomes among Veterans. Guided by a normative transitions theory framework integrating psychosocial challenges (M-CARM) and enrichment (ELS), this cross-sectional study examined reintegration among 410 post-9/11 Veterans. Secure housing loss and unmet mental health needs were associated with multiple reintegration outcomes including Genuine Relationships, Sense of Purpose, Resentment and Regret, and Mental Health. A higher VA disability rating was associated with lower Physical Health and Engaged Citizenship. Unmet mental health needs were inversely associated with seven of nine reintegration outcomes. These findings underscore the value of multidimensional assessment and highlight the importance of housing stability, mental health needs, and broader reintegration challenges. Longitudinal research is needed to clarify how psychosocial challenge and enrichment interact over time and how challenges and enrichment may inform reintegration support and suicide prevention efforts.

PMID:42065400 | DOI:10.1080/08995605.2026.2659392