The 7 Biggest Challenges For Young Veterans

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Military members who begin the transition back into the civilian world face dozens of challenges, no matter how long they may have spent in uniform before formal separation. Several are particularly difficult, including the attempt to become accustomed to a less structured, laid-back world where roles and purposes are not precisely defined. Plus, armed forces members who reenter the non-military economy must find a way to acquire all the services they received at no cost while in uniform. It takes effort and hard work to successfully overcome the hurdles of leaving one world and returning to another.

Besides learning how to provide everyday necessities, individuals must create their own structure for daily life, find jobs, and build social networks. They need to discover a renewed sense of purpose, get reacquainted with family life, deal with the potential pitfalls of PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), and seek out affordable dental care. Here are the details about what former service members face during the changeover period back into civilian economy and society.

Providing for Everyday Necessities

Enlistees and officers in the US armed forces enjoy free or highly subsidized access to life’s most necessities: food and housing. Once they officially become veterans, they need to rearrange their finances to cover those costs. That entails making detailed, realistic budgets for groceries, clothing, utilities, housing, etc. For most, the task is formidable, especially if they entered service as young people with no knowledge about personal financial planning. The solution is to learn the essentials of matching income and expenses. Fortunately, there are vet-friendly organizations that teach financial literacy skills like how to save money and make smart decisions about monthly spending. For those with immediate needs in big cities, there are housing assistance programs for newly separated service members.

Getting Affordable Dental Care

In the non-military world, good dental care can be hard to find and costly. Not all insurance plans cover elective or routine treatments. In fact, the majority of health insurance plans don’t cover oral care at all, and the ones that do tend to be extremely limited in nature. One of the best ways to get access to cosmetic and routine dental work, like checkups and cleanings, is through a financing plan that offers installment payments. With a Cherry payment plan, new patients can get immediate treatment and not have to worry about paying in advance. Instead, expenses are split into monthly installments, which makes every dollar count. Anyone can apply online or by asking their provider for a unique link. The process takes seconds and does not impact credit scores.

Creating a Structured Lifestyle

In the armed forces, individuals learn the true meaning of structure. Each day revolves around defined expectations, the chain of command, and specific routines. Outside that environment, people can feel aimless. Some find it tough to deal with a less rigid schedule. For most new veterans, the solution is to create their own weekly and daily routines that include set wake up times, personal goals, and planned activities. Taking classes and joining clubs can also be an effective way to add structure to anyone’s life.

Finding a Job

Service members enter civilian society with excellent job skills and training. But not all military backgrounds translate directly into ordinary careers. Plus, navigating the job market is a challenge unlike anything service members deal with in their daily duties. It’s essential to get help writing cover letters and resumes before setting out on a job hunt. Some vets network and attend military-focused career fairs to make valuable connections and acquire the skills they need to land that first paid position after separation. Likewise, internships and OJT (on-the-job training) are excellent ways to transition to a fresh career.

Building a Social Network

It’s common for new vets to feel socially isolated after several years of enjoying a built-in network of friends and co-workers in the service. Anyone can find it hard to find a place in a new community. That’s why so many who face the challenge make a dedicated effort to find people with similar interests by joining sports leagues, signing up for social clubs, volunteering, and attending local entertainment events. Faith-based organizations and churches have long been a go-to solution for adults looking to build a strong social network.

Establishing Self-Identity and a Sense of Purpose

Military life has a subtle way of becoming a core component of a person’s identity. After separation, people tend to discover that it’s tough to define themselves in a non-military world or find a renewed purpose in life. Indeed, the armed services provide a clearly defined mission for all its members. Civilian does no such thing; people must create their own. One way is to explore interests by volunteering, taking classes, or speaking with a vocational counselor. Once a person spends time reflecting on their true needs and innermost values, it’s easier to establish a solid self-identity and long-term purpose.

Dealing with PTSD

Mental health challenges are a fact of life for some ex-service members. That means having to face feelings of depression and anxiety that can become overwhelming. Indeed, the VA offers a basic menu of treatment options, but navigating the huge system is not easy. Some vets find success by working with a VA PCP (primary care provider) or a community mental health social worker. There is a national network of veteran support groups that serve as a peer support resource and encourage newly separated members to get the help they need for free or at a very low out-of-pocket cost.