Returning home from a full-scale armed conflict: A rapid review of short post-deployment psychological practices

Abstract

After a full-scale armed conflict, tens of thousands of service members, including professional warfighters and reservists, return home facing an increased risk of PTSD and other mental disorders, as well as various reintegration difficulties that can impact their well-being, social relationships, and quality of life. Numerous countries and armed forces have developed post-deployment adaptation programs (PDAPs) and interventions to mitigate these risks. A rapid review was conducted to synthesize the research literature on rapid and short-term psychological support practices during the post-deployment homecoming phase of a full-scale armed conflict. The aim was to identify practices with scientific support when the homecoming phase is limited to a maximum of three days and that could be offered on a scalable basis to all returning service members. Several PDAPs and interventions were identified. The role of psychoeducation, help-seeking, and social support as other supportive practices was also assessed, suggesting possible interventions and online measures to increase these behaviors in the homecoming population.