Online post-deployment mental health screening: Participant satisfaction, care activation, and gender differences

Operations Enduring Freedom/Iraqi Freedom/New Dawn (OEF/OIF/OND) Reserve and National Guard (RNG) service members have increased risk for post-deployment mental health (MH) and readjustment problems, yet most do not access needed care. It is unknown if RNG service members who experience post-deployment readjustment symptoms are aware these may signify treatable MH concerns and if this knowledge activates care-seeking. The aims of this study were to 1)provide web-based MH screening and educational materials to support individualized psychoeducation; 2)assess user perceptions and intent to seek MH care; and 3)examine gender differences. Participants included Midwestern RNG service members (200 men/ 214 women), recently deployed (past 36 months), Army and Air Force. 80% had 2 or more positive screens. 28% of participants had received MH care since most recent deployment. 48% said MH care was not sought because it was not needed. High rates of combat experiences (79%), military sexual trauma (28%), and substance abuse (46%) were reported. Substance abuse and traumatic brain injury rates were higher for men; MST rates were higher for servicewomen. There were no gender differences among satisfaction survey completers: 26% indicated online information reduced discomfort with seeking MH care; 53% reported they received information they may not have otherwise; 44% reported they would subsequently seek MH assessment - 38% of those who had not sought MH since returning from deployment reported they would seek MH care; 70% would recommend the screenings/education. These findings support web-based approaches to educate and activate individuals regarding their current MH among RNG service members.