Validation of the PCL-5, PHQ-9, and GAD-7 in a Sample of Veterans

Abstract

Objective Veterans can present at nongovernment (Department of Defense, Department of Veterans Affairs) mental health agencies with complex symptom constellations that frequently include posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, and generalized anxiety. To date, no veteran study has validated these measures on a treatment-seeking sample of veterans outside the DoD and VA. Methods We used a treatment-seeking sample of veterans (N = 493) to validate measures that assess these constructs (PTSD Checklist 5, Patient Health Questionnaire-9, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7). Results The seven-factor posttraumatic stress disorder hybrid configuration was the best fit. The best fitting model of the depression measure was a two-factor structure, cognitive-affective, and somatic depression. The measure of generalized anxiety was a unidimensional model. Limitations Follow-up studies should validate these measures on nontreatment-seeking discharged veterans. Conclusions We interpret these findings within the veteran scholarship and explore clinical implications for providers.