By isolating themselves, veterans with PTSD can avoid negative comments about PTSD. When a veteran with PTSD isolates themselves avoid continued efforts to have to explain their feelings.
Self-isolation may not be a conscious choice a veteran makes. When a veteran with PTSD struggles to deal with their feelings, being alone seems like the easiest option.
Veterans may feel overwhelmed or unsafe in large groups., They may feel misunderstood, or just uninterested in being around people. However, isolation can lead to loneliness, depression, and anxiety. Veterans isolate themselves as a coping mechanism to deal with the social anxiety brought on by PTSD.