5 Challenges Veterans Face and How to Help

This month we will be celebrating our nation's birth by looking at how we can better support the veteran community. Below we share what topics we'll be exploring through the month of July. Read now to find out more!

1. The Lack of Education& Career Opportunities for Veterans 

The lack of education and career opportunities for veterans is a pressing issue that needs to be addressed. There are various education and career opportunities specifically designed for veterans, which will help them achieve their goals. These schools and jobs are tailored to the needs of military veterans. The education is typically free or at very low cost and the jobs often pay well. 

2. Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life

The difficulty in transitioning from the military life to civilian life is not limited to coping with a new environment. It also has to do with having to adjust one's mindset and the way they go about their day.

It is common for people who have served in the military to consider themselves as a warrior, which can lead them into thinking that they are fundamentally different from civilians. For example, some veterans may think that civilians are soft or lazy because they don't know what it takes to be a soldier or will never be ready for battle.

There are many challenges that come with transitioning from military life into civilian life such as putting on weight, getting used to sleeping on your side, and losing many lifelong friends.

To help a veteran transition easier into civilian life, it would be helpful if they were provided with more information about the situation and programs that can help them in their specific needs.

3. Mental Health Awareness and Treatment for PTSD

The mental health of service members is important to both the individual and the military community. PTSD is a disorder that affects many people who have been exposed to trauma. The Department of Defense has been conducting research on how to treat PTSD while also providing education and awareness on this condition.

Research on trauma is an important priority for the Department of Defense because mental health impacts not only those in uniform but their families and communities.

4. Unemployment Rate Among Veterans 

Employers are increasingly seeking out veterans due to their strong work ethic and strong values. This means that veterans often have an easier time finding a job than non-veterans do, however many still struggle with unemployment rates that are higher than the national average. The Department of Veterans Affairs provides assistance to veterans trying to find jobs and/or improve their skills. One way in which they do this is by providing veteran friendly job postings. The VA does not always have enough resources to help all those who need it, but they are committed to doing what they can for those who need it.

5. Suicide Prevention and Support for the Veteran Community

Suicide rates in the veteran community have been on the rise since 2010. According to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, more than 10 million American veterans are living with some form of PTSD or depression. Suicide prevention and support for the veteran community is an important topic that needs to be discussed. We need to work together with mental health professionals and organizations to provide counseling and support for our vets. We also need to provide timely and effective treatments so that they are not faced with an untimely end.