Statistics show that the US is home to around 16.5 million veterans. This means that 6.4% of the American population are veterans trying to get used to civilian life.
The transition from military to civilian life can be quite difficult. No matter how long you were in the military, life is going to look very different.
The good news is that there are plenty of veteran resources to help you with this transition. This guide will give you actionable steps to make this change easier.
Keep reading to find out how to transition from military to civilian life.
Get Your Veteran Benefits
As a veteran, leaving the military is quite a challenge. Most veterans qualify for veteran benefits to make civilian life a bit easier.
The most common benefit you probably have heard about is VA disability. This is where you are provided with monthly benefits if you sustained military injuries.
This can help you to supplement your income if you aren’t able to work a full-time job. It is also very useful when it comes to covering different medical expenses.
But you may still qualify for benefits even without a military-related injury. Navigating the world of VA benefits is a bit complex and overwhelming.
That is why it is a good idea to use a company like Veterans Educating Veterans to get help. This company provides coaching and consulting regarding your VA claims.
They can help you navigate denied VA claims and C & P exams prep. This can help you to get access to the benefits that you deserve for your service.
Find Support
It is no secret that some veterans struggle with adjustment disorder. This is when you struggle to adjust to civilian life or other drastic life changes.
You may experience mental health issues like stress and feelings of hopelessness. You may even have physical symptoms depending on the severity.
After serving in the military, you may not want to open up to people about this. A lot of people think that they should work through these issues on their own.
But the reality is that everybody needs a support system on their side. This is especially important during your transition from military to civilian life.
Your support system may be your family and friends, who have been there every step of the way. But it is also useful to reach out and find other military personnel.
At the end of the day, only those who have been in the military understand what it is like. This is why it is always good for veterans to reach out to each other for support.
Create Structure
Military life is very different from civilian life in a variety of ways. One instance of this is that military life is extremely structured.
You know exactly what is going to happen every day and how you are going to do it. This is something that a lot of people miss when they are transitioning out of the military.
You may not have even realized how valuable this structure was. It is important to initiate some kind of structure in your day-to-day life.
This helps you to avoid feeling lost when you were going through these changes. Structure also gives you a purpose that can help with any emotional issues you are experiencing.
Get a Therapy Pet
Animals don’t get enough credit when it comes to helping people after the military. Pets are extremely good companions and provide a form of therapy.
A pet is always supportive and isn’t going to judge you for what you are going through. They also give you something to take care of and put your focus on.
This is why a lot of veterans get a dog after leaving the military. This can be very beneficial for your mental health, keeping you engaged and active.
Give Back
For most people, the military gives them a powerful purpose in their life. Once you leave the military, you may not know how to give back.
Giving back to your local community is a great way to transition. This takes the focus off of yourself and helps you become part of a bigger community.
You can do this by volunteering at a local soup kitchen or with local children. Depending on where you live, there is usually a variety of resources you can become a part of.
Take Time Finding Work
Even if you receive VA benefits, you will most likely need to find a job. Many people still need an income so that they have financial comfort.
This can be quite a challenge since the military is such a specific job. It may take time before you grow accustomed to other kinds of positions you can fill.
You need to take your time when choosing a different job. Don’t rush this decision since you want to choose a job that you feel comfortable with.
It is also important not to sell yourself short when it comes to your pay. Educate yourself on the local rates so that you aren’t lowballed by an employer.
Transition From Military to Civilian Life: Taking the Next Step
After leaving the military, life is going to look very different. The transition from military to civilian life comes with a lot of ups and downs.
You need to find a support system and create structure in your daily life.
Are you interested in veteran resources? Contact us today at Veterans Educating Veterans to get started.