The breadth of difficulties reported by veterans is wider than traditional metrics of casualties and injuries, and those tapping the most acute injuries. A 2008 Rand Corp. study sponsored by the military estimated that 31 percent were suffering from post-traumatic stress, major depression or a traumatic brain injury.

The Post-Kaiser poll also finds the aftershocks are hobbling veterans’ efforts to get back to normal. Half of those who left the military say their transition was difficult, while half say it was easy. The complaints range the gamut from jobs to culture shock to seeking benefits from a Department of Veterans Affairs backlogged with requests. Rather than separate, four in 10 remained in the military, either on active duty or in the Reserves or the National Guard.