Veterans often face unique health challenges connected to their military service, including physical injuries, mental health conditions, and long-term chronic illnesses. For many families, friends, and caregivers, supporting a veteran means helping them navigate complicated health systems while also managing the emotional and practical realities of caregiving.

This resource explores common health challenges veterans experience, highlights key considerations when navigating care and benefits, and offers practical guidance for caregivers supporting veterans at home and in their communities.

Common Health Challenges Faced by Veterans

Military service can have long-term effects on physical, mental, and emotional health. Caregivers often help veterans manage one or more of the following conditions:

Mental and Emotional Health

- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Symptoms may include flashbacks, sleep disruption, anxiety, irritability, or emotional withdrawal.

- Depression and anxiety
These conditions can develop during or after service and may affect motivation, mood, and daily functioning.

- Substance use challenges
Sometimes used as a coping mechanism, substance use can complicate care and recovery.

Brain and Cognitive Health

- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
TBIs may affect memory, concentration, emotional regulation, and behavior, sometimes in subtle but lasting ways.

Physical Health and Chronic Conditions

- Chronic pain and mobility limitations
Musculoskeletal injuries, joint pain, and reduced mobility are common and often require ongoing management.

- Service-related injuries
These may require rehabilitation, adaptive equipment, or long-term care support.

Exposure-Related Conditions

Some veterans were exposed to hazardous materials during service, which may lead to:

- Respiratory conditions
- Certain cancers
- Long-term chronic illnesses requiring ongoing monitoring

Housing and Financial Stability

Veterans may experience:

- Financial stress
- Difficulty maintaining stable housing
- Challenges accessing consistent health care

Caregivers often help connect veterans with appropriate support and community resources.

How DAV Caregivers Support Can Help

Caring for a veteran, or being a veteran who is caring for someone else, should not mean navigating challenges alone. DAV Caregivers Support is designed to support the people who care for veterans and the veterans who provide care to their loved ones.

Through DAV Caregivers Support, individuals can find guidance, education, and emotional support tailored to the unique realities of military-connected caregiving. The program helps caregivers better understand their role, manage stress, and connect with trusted resources that align with veterans’ needs and experiences.

If you are caring for a veteran, or you are a veteran caring for someone in your life, learn more about how DAV Caregivers Support can help you feel informed, supported, and less alone.

Learn more about DAV Caregivers Support: https://www.dav.org/get-help-now/dav-caregivers-support/