Transitioning back into civilian life
Everyone who retires or is discharged from the military, honorably or not, faces a unique experience when getting out of the service. While some transition smoothly, many find it more difficult than expected to re-enter civilian life. In this article, we will cover five ways of making the transition less painful.
Keep up with other veterans.
You might no longer be in the service, but you are still a part of the community. Keeping up with those you served with or those who have served in your community will not only potentially open up new doors for you, but other veterans can help give you valuable advice for this new chapter in your life. There are many online communities on Facebook, Reddit, and all across the internet where veterans can swap stories and advice with one another.
Apply your military experience to your resume
No doubt, you learned a lot while you were in the military. From diligence, technical skills, and integrity to teamwork and communication skills, you have a lot to offer a potential employer. You have skills and experience under your belt that the average civilian could only dream of obtaining.
Make time to try new hobbies and get back to old ones.
If you already have a hobby you thoroughly enjoy, now is the time to indulge in it! If you’ve yet to find something you enjoy putting time into, it’s a great time to try new things and see what brings you joy.
Commit yourself to self-care
Getting out of the service isn’t a walk in the park, and you may feel overwhelmed by this new transition. Be sure to set time aside to check in with yourself and practice self-care. Self-care looks different for everyone. However, there are a few proven methods of boosting serotonin. Examples are: working out, getting enough sleep at night, and eating a balanced diet.
Find healthy ways to cope with PTS
Many veterans struggle with Post Traumatic Stress, and it’s easy to want to mend anxiety and depression with harmful substances. Instead of walking on that slippery slope, find ways to cope that will genuinely benefit you. Get outside frequently, talk with friends or fellow veterans regularly, exercise every day, and don’t be too hard on yourself!
Getting out of the service is not a linear experience, and you may need to remind yourself regularly to take time for yourself and give yourself a break. If you find yourself heavily struggling, you may want to utilize the resources available to veterans offered by the VA or countless other veteran organizations.
We hope this information was helpful to military personnel getting ready to transition back into civilian life! If you need any other tips or you have any questions, please feel free to drop your requests in the contact section of our website or write us on Facebook!
