An analysis of media coverage of the transition from military to civilian life, with a focus on health and well-being

Abstract

LAY SUMMARY The media can shape the opinions, beliefs, and attitudes of the public toward Veterans and Veteran issues and can also be a vital source of information for Veterans and their families. Accordingly, the authors used social science methods to collect, read, and analyze the tone and content of Canadian media coverage of Veteran transition from military to civilian life. The most common themes included posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), suicide, and issues with employment, housing, and social integration. Less common themes included financial issues, depression, and substance use. Comparing coverage between mainstream and specialist media emanating from the Canadian Armed Forces found patterns of reporting differ between military and mainstream media. Mainstream media often focus on PTSD and suicide, especially in the context of extremely rare, one-off events (e.g., the Lionel Desmond incident). In contrast, military media focus on practical aspects of transition, such as employment issues and support programs. Results of this study indicate a need for more educational resources and better outreach to help Canadian journalists report military-to-civilian transition in a comprehensive and balanced manner.