Impact of Discrimination and Coping on Veterans' Willingness to Seek Treatment for Physical and Mental Health Problems

Objective: This study aimed to provide insight into health disparities among Veterans by (a) documenting the prevalence of physical and mental health problems in a racially diverse sample of Veterans, (b) comparing Veterans' willingness to seek treatment for various physical and mental health conditions, and (c) examining the impact of discrimination and coping on willingness to seek treatment. Method: Veterans reported on current physical and mental health symptoms and the importance of treatment for various health conditions. Patterns were examined in the full sample (N = 334, 32% female) and the subsample who reported hazardous alcohol use in the past year (n = 116, 33% female). Linear regression was used to test alternative coping as a moderator of the association between experiences with discrimination and willingness to seek treatment among Veterans of color (n = 242, 37% female). Results: Participants reported greater willingness to seek treatment for physical than mental health conditions. Sleep problems (75%) and substance use (74%) were the most prevalent health behaviors, but they were rated lowest in treatment importance. Among Veterans of color, everyday experiences with discrimination were generally associated with less willingness to seek physical or mental health treatment, but often only among those who denied use of coping strategies. Conclusions: Veterans are least willing to seek treatment for the health conditions that are most prevalent in their communities. Coping strategies may mitigate the negative association between discriminatory experiences and willingness to seek treatment among Veterans of color. Public Health Significance Statement This study indicates that Veterans are least willing to seek treatment for the health behaviors that are most prevalent within their communities (sleep problems, alcohol, and other drug use). Importantly, coping strategies may mitigate the negative associations between discriminatory experiences and willingness to seek treatment among Veterans of color.