Thousands of American service members are returning from their tours of duty with physical and/or psychological disabilities. Many-if not most-of these service members will need at least some assistance to adapt to their disabilities and learn how to reintegrate back into civilian life. Also impacted will be the spouse, friends, employers, family members, counselors, and community members of each veteran with a disability. The veterans may not be aware of the ways in which their disabilities are impacting them, nor knowledgeable about the resources available to help them cope. In addition, many such individuals feel isolated and reluctant to acknowledge their difficulties or ask for assistance. The volume compiles and summarizes the information disabled veterans and those with whom they interact will be interested in knowing and using.

Foreword / Daniel K. Inouye -- Preface -- About the cover photo -- Benefits for veterans: a historical context and overview of the current situation / Rodney R. Baker -- Current veteran demographics and implications for veterans' health care / Ann M. Hendricks and Jomana H. Amara -- Injuries and symptoms / Jaine Darwin, Nathan D. Ainspan, John W. Klocek, Mark J. Bates, Stephen V. Bowles, Jocelyn A. Kilgore, and Lionel P. Solursh -- Physical and psychological impact of your injury and disability / John W. Klocek -- Fitness for duty, recovery, and return to service / Mark J. Bates, Stephen V. Bowles, Jocelyn A. Kilgore, and Lionel P. Solursh -- Finding employment as a veteran with a disability / Nathan D. Ainspan -- Education options / Charles J. Sabatier Jr -- Disabilities and injuries among the members of the National Guard and reserve units / Jaine Darwin -- 9: Impact on family and friends / Shirley M. Glynn -- Peer support services / Wayne Gregory -- Psychological impact of disabilities / Walter E. Penk and Ralph Robinowitz -- Chronology -- Index -- About the editors and contributors.