The VA conducts a nationwide system of Vet Centers which provide counseling service to Vietnam era veterans. Their professional staff addresses problems and concerns of Vietnam era veterans and their families that are related to the veteran's experience while on active duty or during the military to civilian transition.
Services range from social services to education or readjustment concerns.
Readjustment counseling services include a general assessment to find out whether the veteran has identifiable social or psychological problems that were caused by military service during the Vietnam era. The term PTSD covers a host of symptoms associated with exposure to catas- trophic stress. Nightmares, flashbacks, anxiety and sudden-startle reactions can occur immediately after exposure to the stress of combat. Or these prob- lems may develop years after the original stress. Symptoms of PTSD can prevent the veteran from enjoying a well-adjusted work and family life.