Veterans may be susceptible to a variety of stress-related issues, including readjustment to the civilian world. Some veterans on campus may have recently left the military. Others may be reservists who recently returned from combat deployment. It is possible to go from a combat zone to a college campus in a matter of weeks or days, such adjustment may be stressful. Some veterans may be unaware of, or unprepared for, the symptoms of the stress they are experiencing.

A severe type of stress is called Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Veterans undergoing readjustment or post-trauma stress may occasionally feel overwhelmed by symptoms.

Physical signs of a stress response include: rapid heartbeat, headaches, stomachaches, and muscle tension.

Emotional signs of stress include: excitement, exhilaration, as well as frustration, nervousness, discouragement, anxiety and anger.

New social situations, academic pressures, deadlines, and coping with the bureaucratic details of university life can all induce stress. Only a qualified clinician can determine whether stress symptoms indicate a more serious condition, such as PTSD. For detailed information regarding PTSD, visit the National Center for PTSD website.

Additional Resources:

• The Project for Return and Opportunity in Veterans Education (PROVE) is committed to enhancing the experiences of student veterans as they transition from military to civilian life. Funded by CUNY, the project focuses on the special skills and talents veterans bring to student life, as well as their special concerns and needs. We strive to improve the quality of life for CUNY student veterans through compassion, respect and responsiveness to their educational journey. For more information, visit the PROVE website.

• The Vet Centers provide readjustment counseling and outreach services to all veterans who served in any combat zone. Services are also available for their family members for military related issues. Veterans have earned these benefits through their service and all are provided at no cost to the veteran or family. For more information, visit The Vet Centers website.
  

• Jewish Board of Family and Children's Services, Veterans and Families Initiative (Open to any and all denominations)
  120 West 57th Street
  New York, NY 10019
  Phone: (646) 957-0853