As the veteran demographics change, this presents new or unique challenges, especially for women who now make up over 10% of America’s veteran population [1].
Veterans are at an increased risk of PTSD and face unique challenges such as operational stress, combat exposure, and mental health stigma. Read on to understand these differences in veteran demographics.
America’s Veteran Population
America’s veteran population consists of over 18 million individuals from a range of backgrounds who have served in the US military. They make up about 6% of the American adult population, yet have some of the highest rates of addiction, mental health challenges, and homelessness compared to other demographic groups, due to the difficulties that arise from transitioning back to civilian life [1].
Below are a few relevant stats to highlight the challenges that America’s veteran population faces [1][2]:
- More than 60% of veterans returning from combat suffer from PTSD, and female veterans are twice as likely to be diagnosed
- Veterans are twice as likely to die by suicide compared to civilians
- Nearly 70% of homeless veterans are thought to struggle with a substance use disorder
- 11% of veterans admitted to treatment centers were for heroin use
- Veterans are one of the largest demographic groups impacted by the opioid pandemic
Unique Challenges for Veterans Returning to Civilian Life
There are several challenges that veterans face complicating their reintegration back into civilian life and increasing the risk of substance abuse and mental health challenges.
Trauma, PTSD, and Addiction
The Department of Veterans Affairs estimates that at least 30% of veterans develop PTSD at some point in their lives. Many of them struggle with symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, hyperarousal, and challenges with daily functioning. PTSD frequently co-occurs with substance abuse, and 63% of veterans with a substance use disorder are also diagnosed with PTSD [3].
Below are common symptoms that veterans with PTSD and/or addiction typically experience.
PTSD Symptoms:
- Intrusive memories
- Flashbacks
- Nightmares
- Irritability, aggression, or anger
- Emotional numbness
Lack of Identity and Purpose
Serving in the military often provides individuals with a sense of purpose, commitment, loyalty, and structure. More than just a job, it becomes a part of one’s identity. However, after returning to civilian life, many veterans feel disconnected or like they have lost their purpose.
This can contribute to mental health challenges such as isolation, depression, and anxiety. Effective treatment programs for veterans help them develop new goals and find meaning after returning home from overseas.
Employment and Housing
Veterans have some of the highest unemployment rates in the country. This is due to physical or mental injury, lack of work experience, or improper credentials. Many also struggle with homelessness, around 37,000 are estimated to be living on the street. [4].
Social and Family Reintegration
After returning from combat, many veterans feel disconnected from their families, have strained relationships, and struggle with communication. Veterans are often put into distressing situations that civilians rarely face, which can make it difficult to relate to others and express what they have been through.
At Miramar, we help you reintegrate through family counseling, peer support, and case management.
Gender Differences in Veterans
Women make up 11% of all US veterans as of 2025, with many being younger than the average male veteran. Women veterans tend to be more racially diverse and have higher education levels, with many holding a college degree.
As gender demographics in the military increase in diversity, there are a few challenges that affect male and female veterans at different rates [1].
Military Sexual Trauma In Women and Men
According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, 1 in 3 women report experiencing military sexual trauma (MST). A RAND Corporation Study (2021) estimated 3.5% of active-duty men experienced unwanted sexual contact in the past year. The DoD estimates only about 1 in 4 male survivors report assaults.
Men frequently have experienced MST, but due to stigma, it can be very difficult to discuss. Our therapists at Miramar are aware of this and delicately work with both men and women who have experienced MST.
This includes any form of sexual assault or harassment during their military service. MST survivors are more likely to develop PTSD and other mental health challenges, such as addiction and depression.
Nearly 3 out of 4 MST survivors report living with suicidal thoughts, and 40% have attempted to take their own lives, highlighting the need for specialized care and MST-informed treatment [5].
Male Veterans and Mental Health Stigma
Mental health stigma in the military has long been a barrier for many male veterans, who follow traditional military culture and masculinity norms that emphasize emotional control, independence, and toughness. For many servicemen, admitting to struggles can feel like a weakness, and many avoid treatment early on because of this [6].
Fortunately, more military leaders are speaking out about this problem and supporting veterans in finding help for their trauma after they return from service.
PTSD in Male Veterans vs Female Veterans
Female veterans typically experience higher rates of PTSD, affecting nearly 19% of female veterans compared to 7% of males [7].
Female veterans report more interpersonal trauma, such as sexual assault or emotional violence, while men report higher rates of combat exposure.
How Miramar Health Helps Veterans Return to Civilian Life
At Miramar, we understand that veterans and active-duty military have unique experiences that most US civilians cannot relate to. Our veteran-owned and operated treatment center understands challenges like combat trauma, military sexual trauma, operational stress, isolation from families due to living overseas, and difficulty reintegrating into civilian life.
Our specialized care supports veterans and their families in several ways, including:
- Trauma-Informed: Our trauma-informed staff understands specific kinds of military trauma, with many having served themselves.
- Holistic Healing: Some of our holistic activities include yoga, art therapy, and music therapy.
- Reducing Stigma: We offer a safe space for veterans to share their experiences with others who have served.
- Integration: Miramar supports re-integration into civilian life with case management and sober living.
Military-Informed Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatment in Orange County
Miramar Health is a veteran-owned and operated recovery program providing trauma-informed care for veterans. Our mission is to free veterans from America’s mental health and addiction crisis and to empower them to create a better future for themselves and their families.
We understand the complex nature of trauma and offer individualized treatment options that are specific to veterans. Take the first step to your recovery. You’re not alone. Reach out to our Admissions team today.
Sources
[1] Schaeffer, K. 2023. The changing face of America’s veteran population. Pew Research Center.
[2] US Department of Veterans Affairs. 2025. Veteran Suicide Data and Reporting.
[3] Kaysen, D. L. (2018). Co-Occurring Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Alcohol Use Disorder in U.S. Military and Veteran Populations. Alcohol research: current reviews, 39(2), 161–169.
[4] Miller, A. 2021. 37,000 U.S. Veterans Are Homeless. I Was One of Them. Economic Hardship Reporting Project.
[5] Hunt, D. et al. (2025). Enhancing Awareness and Care: Addressing Military Sexual Trauma among Women Veterans. Southern medical journal, 118(8), 517–521.
[6] J. A. (2023). “It’s a sign of weakness”: Masculinity and help-seeking behaviors among male veterans accessing posttraumatic stress disorder care. Psychological trauma: theory, research, practice and policy, 15(4), 665–671.
[7] Simpson, T. L. (2018). Post-traumatic Stress Disorder by Gender and Veteran Status. American journal of preventive medicine, 54(1), e1–e9.