The military is a way of life, and for those leaving service to head back to civilian life are facing what feels like the biggest challenge of their lives so far. Even the hardest and toughest of military personnel who have served their country, completed tours in some of the most dangerous places in the world, been injured and witnessed their friends and colleagues go through similar traumas are often daunted at the prospect of leaving their military lives behind. 

The challenges they’re now facing are completely different from the regimented and structured lives that they’ve led for probably most of their lives. And if you’re leaving the military due to an injury or a disability then it’s difficult to know how you’re going to cope with life on civvy-street.

With this in mind, we’re going to look at the most common transition issues facing veterans who are returning from service and how they can overcome them.

Finances 

Understandably, leaving the military with an injury is going to make any kind of future employment either unlikely or impossible. So, concerns will arise. Many veterans are going to turn to benefits to help support and provide for their family – click the link to see a veterans affairs retrospective disability calculator. Leaving the military with injuries such as PTSD, knee issues, chronic back pain, depression and brain injuries to name a few would make you an eligible candidate for VA benefit. 

Sense of identity

When the military is all you’ve ever known and you have a career that has spanned decades, then you’re going to have a strong sense of identity. Naturally, when that is taken away from you, you’re likely going to feel lost, lose your self-worth and struggle to find a purpose. Many veterans report that attending support groups for ex-military personnel can help them remain focused and give them a sense of self-worth. 

Finding a job

A new career is daunting for anyone. But when the army is all you’ve ever known you may wonder if you’ll ever fit in anywhere else. Leaving the army means you have plenty of transferrable skills that actually fit perfectly in the workplace. From using logic to strategizing, working well as a team and being able to highlight potential dangers or issues, not forgetting your high interpersonal and people skills! 

Reconnecting with family

Being able to connect with those you love isn’t as easy as it sounds. Especially if they can’t relate to your experiences or emotions. Veterans should give themselves time and ensure that they communicate their feelings to loved ones.

Categories: Me

Vicky Charles

Vicky is a single mother, writer and card reader.

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