Veterans showcase patriotism, courage, and honor during their service by enduring extremely tough and cumbersome situations for the best interest of their homeland. The physical and mental challenges they face as part of their job often negatively impact their mind and body. Certain steps need to be taken by veterans post-service to help them navigate their health and well-being positively for a secure future. Here are six steps veterans can take today for a better tomorrow!

Be Vigilant About Diagnosing Health Issues

Health problems do not come knocking at your door with prior notice. Furthermore, many health issues, especially mental health, do not make themselves known through physical symptoms. That means veterans must be extra careful about getting health issues diagnosed on time so proper steps can be taken for recovery; this includes consultation, screening, treatment, and medication. The most common types of physical health issues veterans fall victim to include but are not limited to heart disease, type 2 diabetes, brain injury, viral hepatitis, and different types of cancers. One such type of cancer is mesothelioma, which veterans can even seek financial compensation for. The linkage between veterans and mesothelioma comes from asbestos exposure during service, and one must take immediate action to begin the recovery process. Where mental health is concerned, post-traumatic stress disorder (PSTD), depression, and anxiety are the leading conditions veterans suffer, as well as chronic drug abuse. Similar to physical health issues, these conditions can also be controlled and mitigated by timely diagnosis followed by taking the necessary steps toward recovery. 

Work with Your Thoughts 

Those struggling with mental health issues know our thoughts are our biggest enemy. The cycle of negative thinking begins with experiencing traumatic events, such as those witnessed by veterans in line with their service. As mentioned above, veterans most commonly suffer mental health issues, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, episodes of rage, and chronic drug abuse. Unfortunately, many veterans who see no way out end up losing their battle with mental health and taking their own lives. The Veterans Affairs National Suicide Data Report shows that the suicide rate for veterans is 1.5 times higher than the general public. That means veterans’ lives depend on their ability to work with their thoughts and beliefs. Although this is not an easy task, thanks to the awareness raised on the mental health problems of veterans and increased resources for psychotherapy, counseling, rehabilitation, and suicide prevention, help is more easily accessible.

All veterans, even those with healthy thought patterns and stable mental health, are advised to partake in regular therapy sessions with a licensed professional therapist or join a therapy group. However, those who do find themselves battling mental illness and suicidal thoughts should seek immediate help from their local therapists and counselors or consult the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and Veterans Crisis Line, which provide immediate assistance to vulnerable individuals. Relying on external help for mental health stability is not the only way, as certain lifestyle changes such as sound sleep, a healthy diet, proper exercise, productive hobbies, and spending time with loved ones can significantly improve thought patterns. Furthermore, reading up and learning about psychological techniques of trauma healing and processing emotions, as well as journaling and talking about your feelings, are also useful steps to take towards better mental health.

Eat Right and Exercise 

The two absolute game changers towards staying fit and fabulous are the right diet and the right exercise. A 2017 Journal of Nutrition, Health, and Aging study finds that veterans may be at higher risk for malnutrition than the general adult population, with 15% of veterans being malnourished and 40% being at risk for malnutrition. As stated, this is an alarming conclusion that indicates that veterans must have a greater emphasis on a well-balanced, healthy diet.

An easy way of doing so is consuming three whole meals daily high in protein, carbohydrates, fats, fibers, vitamins, and minerals. The daily intake of 8 glasses of water must also be adhered to. Dietary changes alone may show positive results but are insufficient, so must be accompanied by at least 30 minutes of physical activity each day. Gym equipment may be beneficial but is not necessary, and a brisk walk or jog around the neighborhood is enough exercise for a healthy body and mind. Yoga is an even better practice for maintaining physical and mental health. It not only helps you move your body, but breathing meditation accompanied by it is highly beneficial for alleviating anxiety and depression.

Manage Your Finances

If unplanned, life after retirement can bring about all sorts of financial burdens and challenges. Since veterans already dedicate the majority of their lives towards service to their nation, it is only right that they get to spend life post-service in ease and financial comfort. To do so, a well-thought-out financial plan must be devised, including proper budgeting, calculating assets and liabilities, and investment ventures. A handful of services are available to help veterans in this task, such as the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, which offers financial hardship assistance. You can also consult financial advisors and institutions for this purpose. Furthermore, many free-of-cost and discounted services are available for veterans, such as wellness centers, hospitals, restaurants, and even leisure activities like theatres, which they can avail to save money for a rainy day.

Say No to Drugs 

Due to the traumatic events witnessed by veterans during their course of work, they become highly susceptible to drug use and abuse. What starts as a coping mechanism to set their mind right and give temporary relief becomes an addiction that consumes their mind, body, and soul. Returning into this trap, veterans end up in financial debt, with several physical and mental health conditions added to their roster. The chronic use of alcohol, cigarettes, and opioids among veterans has even increased suicide rates. A study on military personnel found that approximately around 20% of deaths due to high-risk behavior and 30% of suicides were attributable to alcohol or drug use. Keeping these negative effects in mind, veterans must consciously say no to drugs and opt for healthy coping mechanisms instead. However, those who may already find themselves victims of substance abuse must understand that quitting is never too late. Resources such as rehabilitation centers and counseling are readily available to give you a fresh start and show you that you are much more than your addictions.

Get Involved in Community

Being a part of noble causes surrounded by a good company is an incredibly productive activity to partake in after retirement. For veterans, these causes include veteran support groups and welfare organizations working towards creating a platform for veterans to connect. Veterans can play a pivotal role in creating awareness of their service by talking about their shared experiences, giving valuable advice, and educating citizens about service life and their sacrifices for the nation. Moreover, the exposure gained from socializing and engaging with other community members shall help them make meaningful connections and long-lasting friendships based on mutual interest. They can also join other charitable and educational institutes or volunteer at public organizations to keep themselves busy while being active community members.

Conclusion

Old age is difficult, but even more for veterans who compromise their well-being in line with their profession. To make their post-service life a rewarding period after spending years serving their country, veterans can use the abovementioned tips, adding to them where necessary. With a little effort, planning, and a few lifestyle changes, a stress-free and content retirement awaits them.