Community Reintegration of Veterans After Discharge: A Qualitative Look

<i>The majority of examined literature generalizes veteran experiences after serving in Iraq or Afghanistan, identifying a research gap specific to veterans’ experiences reintegrating into their communities and daily lives. There is a lack of evidence pertaining to occupational therapy service provision in veteran community reintegration. Colaizzi’s<b> </b>phenomenological qualitative approach was used to analyze data from semi-structured interviews to define themes from seven participants. Convenience and network sampling were used to recruit participants until reaching saturation. Eight themes were identified related to the participants’ experiences reintegrating into their communities post-discharge. Each veteran had a unique reintegration process dependent upon their experiences during active service; sustained physical or mental health conditions from service; environmental and social support; and plans after discharge. The participants highlighted the challenges and supports faced post-discharge from active duty. The results of this study identified support systems, utilization of VA services, and experiences with mental health impacting transition to civilian life. Further research is needed to enhance services offered to veterans post-discharge, including the expansion of occupational therapy services with this population.</i>