When the first Vermont National Guard Units were returning from Iraq and Afghanistan, Vermont’s VA hospital increased its staff and began working with families and social service agencies to help them recognize the warning signs of psychological distress. But some combat veterans and their families are still complaining that they’re not getting the services they need.
Dr. Andrew Pomerantz is chief of Mental Health at the White River Junction VA hospital. He’s an associate professor of psychiatry at Dartmouth Medical School. He spoke with VPR’s Jane Lindholm about the treatment and community support programs that are in place for returning veterans.