Some were already a bit messed up before they joined. That said, the ones that don't have stickers all over their vehicles, and don't wear shirts that say "dysfunctional veteran" aka attention seekers, often don't get the help they need for a variety of reasons. One major problem is that there are a MASSIVE amount of vets claiming PTSD who are completely full of KRAP. Unfortunately it has become another way to get a bigger check each month from Uncle Sugar, so many (both men and women) who never actually even heard a shot fired in anger are claiming PTSD now.
That schitt has been going on for years. It ramped up after the first Gulf War.
100% disability. $3k/month. Tax free.
