Invisible Disabilities, Stigma, and Student Veterans: Contextualizing the Transition to Higher Education

Abstract: As military veterans transition back into civilian life, the transition process is often filled with challenges. Some veterans leave military service having developed a service-related disability such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression. These invisible disabilities can further complicate the transition from military to civilian life. As military veterans with invisible disabilities begin the transition back into society, many enroll in college to retrain or start new careers. While many military veterans experience difficulties transitioning into civilian life, their invisible disabilities, and the often stigmatization that comes with such disabilities, can make integrating into college as a student a uniquely challenging transition in their new lives.