Combat Exposure, Emotional and Physical Role Limitations, and Substance Use Among Male United States Army Reserve and National Guard Soldiers

Combat exposure is a risk factor for poor quality of life for Service members; however, the role of unhealthy life style (e.g., heavy drinking, substance abuse) in the association between combat exposure and quality of life is unknown. Male Soldiers completed an on-line survey regarding their combat exposure, quality of life, and drinking and substance use behaviors to explore this association. Results revealed a negative association between Soldiers' combat exposure and quality of life, and also indicated that heavy drinking and substance abuse behaviors amplified the negative association.