Reports of functional problems are common amongVeterans who served post9/11 (more than 25% report functionaldifficulties in at least one domain). However, little prospectivework has examined the risk and protective factors for functionaldifficulties among Veterans. In a sample of recently separatedMarines, we used stepwise logistic and multiple regressions toidentify predictors of functional impairment, including workrelatedproblems, financial problems, unlawful behavior, activitylimitations due to mental health symptoms, and perceived difficultyreintegrating into civilian life. Posttraumatic stress disordersymptoms assessed both before and after military separation significantlypredicted functional difficulties across all domainsexcept unlawful behavior. Certain outcomes, such as unlawfulbehavior and activity limitations due to mental health symptoms,were predicted by other or additional predictors. Although severalforms of functioning were examined, the list was notexhaustive. The results highlight a number of areas where targetedinterventions may facilitate the reintegration of militaryservicemembers into civilian life.
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