Abstract

Previous research has shown that veterans with higher levels of distress are less likely to seek support. Distress and reluctance regarding help seeking present formidable barriers to veteran health and wellness. The present study examined the effects of PTSD symptomatology on the perception of help-seeking behavior in a convenience sample of veterans (n = 37). Participants were recruited through professional networks and online social networking and were asked to complete an anonymous survey. The survey utilized the PCL-M to measure levels of PTSD, the Gallops Revised Combat Scale to measure combat exposure, and a series of vignettes to measure the perception of PTSD treatment necessity and deservingness. Findings suggest that veterans with higher levels of PTSD symptomatology endorse less PTSD treatment necessity and deservingness for other veterans. As a result, veterans with high levels of PTSD symptoms may be more isolated, less willing or able to access services and at increased risk following military service or deployment.