Many veterans and their families face unique challenges, and while it’s kind to thank veterans for their service, advocating for them and their families on different levels can help provide a different degree of tangible support they need. The US Department of Veterans Affairs is a good resource to start with. Senior vets who live alone are also in need of support just as much, if not more so, than those residing in family units. You can also support veterans by patronizing veteran-owned businesses, like CLMarine.com.
Veteran And Military Family Challenges
A career in the military impacts a service member's whole family. From deployments and frequent relocations to combat-sustained physical injuries and emotional needs, military families juggle a wide range of issues. Reintegration into civilian life can be particularly tricky. Of course, all veterans and their families are different, and there are no one-size-fits-all approaches when it comes to how best to support them. According to the National Council On Family Relations, open and honest dialogue about needs and ways to support is a good starting point.
Access To Resources
While there are a number of community and government resources available for vets and their families, there can be waiting lists, red tape, and a lot of levels of bureaucracy to wade through to access them. As such, making yourself available to help compile documentation, track down resources, access information, and make appointments can be a big stress reliever. Some vets are eligible for home modifications, and others qualify for home loans and specialized medical care. The National Veterans Foundation offers access to a wealth of information and resources on varied topics related to veterans’ needs.
Mental Health Resources
Unfortunately, many vets develop mental health issues following their time in the service and can be at high risk for depression, anxiety, drug and alcohol abuse, and even suicide. It’s not just illegal drugs to be on the lookout for - some vets become addicted to prescription pain medications originally prescribed to treat injuries sustained in combat. Warning signs to watch for include hoarding or hiding medication, clumsiness or memory loss, irritability and mood swings, withdrawing from friends and family, and suicidal ideation.
Successful Reintegration
Most veterans receive exceptional degrees of training in the military, and many skill sets can be applied to jobs in the civilian world. You can help vets create resumes, get familiar with job boards, or even connect to hiring firms or companies that actively recruit veterans. You can also help by performing mock interviews, making referrals, and writing letters of recommendation. You can even be an advocate on a larger scale, encouraging local companies to consider direct outreach to vets through local VA facilities and groups.
Advanced Education
Some veterans may prefer to get training or education that prepares them to pursue a new line of work. According to Student Veterans of America, you can help them determine if they qualify for special tuition programs and assist with exploring different education and career paths. They don’t even have to be physically on campus to pursue a degree - in fact, online degree programs offer great flexibility and provide the chance to work at your own place and learn from virtually anywhere. Online programs have extensive offerings and are often less expensive than traditional college environments.
Sometimes, the greatest support you can provide to a veteran or a military family is to be a shoulder to lean on, allowing them to voice their challenges, fears, frustrations, and concerns. While there are myriad resources and information available, every vet and their family are unique individuals with their very own experiences, thoughts, and feelings. Your willingness to be an advocate can go a long way.
CLMarine.com is a veteran-owned business that specializes in boating, fishing, and outdoor sporting activity products, supplies, and services. Visit the site to learn more, or contact the company for more information.
Written by; Rhonda Underhill
Photo by Pixabay
