Prevalence and Correlates of Alcohol Misuse Among Returning Afghanistan and Iraq Veterans

The prevalence and correlation between reported alcohol misuse, the associations with mental health symptoms (depression, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, suicidal ideation) and factors related to treatment utilization of recently returned OEF/OIF National Guard (NG) Service members was assessed. Researchers used an anonymous survey in an effort to minimize concerns about stigma and military consequences. Results indicate that National Guard Service members who were younger, male, and displayed symptoms of PTSD/depression were more likely to misuse alcohol.