Combat and peacekeeping operations in relation to prevalence of mental disorders and perceived need for mental health care: Findings from a large representative sample of military personnel

Abstract

Context: Although military personnel are trained for combat and peacekeeping operations, accumulating evidence indicates that deployment-related exposure to traumatic events is associated with mental health problems and mental health service use. Objective: To examine the relationships between combat and peacekeeping operations and the prevalence of mental disorders, self-perceived need for mental health care, mental health service use, and suicidality. Design: Cross-sectional, population-based survey. Setting: Canadian military. Participants: A total of 8441 currently active military personnel (aged 16-54 years). Main Outcome Measures: The DSM-IV mental disorders (major depressive disorder,..