Some of the very factors which have kept the psychiatric casualty rate low in Viet Nam soldiers have ironically contributed to many of the psychosocial problems of adjustment of the returning veteran. His self-image is blighted by an alien society which does not regard him as a hero. A sense of loneliness may foster depression which leads to continuation of drug abuse often begun in Viet Nam. Problems are even greater for the returning black veteran. Today's psychiatric facilities must gear themselves to the need for treating the large numbers of emotional problems, ignored or postponed in active duty, but often thrust into prominence upon return.
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References
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BournePG: Men, Stress and Viet Nam. Boston, Little, Brown and Company, 1970.
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BournePG, (ed): Psychology and Physiology of Stress. New York, Academic Press, 1970.
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FendrichJPearsonM: The black veteran's return. Transaction5:32–7, 1970.
