Longitudinal Relationship between Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms and Physical Symptoms in Military Veterans

Abstract

Objective This study aimed to assess the temporal relationship of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms and physical symptoms in a non-treatment-seeking deployed military sample. Methods Data were from a longitudinal study of Australian Defence Force personnel deployed to the Middle East Area of Operations between 2010 and 2012 (n = 1871). Predeployment assessment was conducted 4 months before deployment (T1). Of these, 1324 (70.8% retention rate) participated in assessment within 4 months after deployment (T2), and 1122 (60.0%) completed the third time point at 4 years after deployment (T3). PTSD symptoms were assessed with the posttraumatic stress checklist and physical symptoms wi..