NOT ALL WOUNDS HEAL – WE’RE HERE TO HELP YOU MAKE A STRONG TRANSITION TO CIVILIAN LIFE

Nearly 1 in 4 active duty members showed signs of a mental health condition, according to a 2014 study in JAMA Psychiatry.

Facts about mental illness in veterans:

  • Nearly one third (29%) of veterans returning from Iraq or Afghanistan will develop PTSD at some point during their life. View More
  • Veterans have 1.5 times higher rate of suicide than the general public. For veterans under 45, suicide was the second leading cause of death. View More
  • 9% of all military outpatient clinic appointments are due to depression. View More

If you are having thoughts of suicide, the Veterans Crisis Line is available 24/7 by call or text at 988 and pressing option 1.

older soldier or veteran speaking

MAINTAIN A STRONG BODY AND MIND

Here are some important tips and suggestions for maintaining a strong body and mind once your military service comes to an end:

Connect with other veterans or veterans’ groups.

It’s much easier to make the transition to civilian life when you’re not alone.

Utilize online tools and resources.

Real Warriors is a great site for all service members, whether they be active duty, National Guard or Reserve, veterans and their families.

Find veteran-friendly health services in your area.

You can obtain information on local services through My HealtheVet, the VA’s online personal health record.

Try to be patient with your civilian coworkers and the civilian work schedule.

Your civilian coworkers may appear less committed than you’re used to, and less interested in team work. You may also find that you rand your civilian coworkers have different modes of speech at the office. Military jargon is a complex language and you might feel like you’re having to translate yourself into “civilian English.”

Recognize that frustration is normal during this transition.

In fact, frustration is a sign that you’re adjusting and growing stronger.

Talk to a mental health professional.

If you find yourself growing more frustrated or isolated over time, a mental health professional can help you determine if mental health care will increase your resilience.

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