Longitudinal Changes in Combat-Related Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Among Operation Enduring Freedom/Operation Iraqi Freedom/Operation New Dawn Veterans With Hazardous Alcohol Use: The Role of Avoidance Coping

Veterans are at high risk for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), so it is important to understand the risk factors that contribute to PTSD severity. To explore PTSD risk factors among Veterans, this study analyzed data from two time points (baseline and one year later) regarding their childhood, combat severity, post-deployment social support, coping strategies, and PTSD symptoms. Results revealed that post-deployment social support and an avoidant coping style (i.e., avoidance of dealing with stress) were associated with Veteran's PTSD severity.