As a licensed clinical therapist and Army veteran who served for eight years, I understand firsthand the complexities and challenges faced by veterans transitioning from military to civilian life. Recently, I had the pleasure of discussing these issues with Joe McGee, a retiring Army officer, dynamic entrepreneur, author, and podcast host known for his dedication to bridging the gap between military service and civilian entrepreneurship through his popular podcasts, “SOVEREIGN” and “Combat to Commerce.”
The Transition Challenge
In both of us serving in the armed forces, this podcast was filled with nostalgic memoires: from the rigorous training and camaraderie to the shared experiences of adjusting to civilian life after years of service. One of the primary aspects we discussed is the sheer challenge of adjusting to civilian life after years of military service. For many veterans, the military is not just a job; it’s an entire way of life. The structure, discipline, and camaraderie experienced in the military can make the civilian world seem chaotic and unstructured. There’s a deep-seated fear of the unknown and an uncertainty about how to navigate a new life post-discharge.
Transitioning to civilian life means adjusting to numerous changes, from learning new cadences and adhering to a different set of rules, to calling the bathroom a latrine and eating “five-star” meals called MREs in the field, which were the only meals in the world considered such a “great” privilege. The transition is one of the most life-changing experiences, and only a few have undergone this significant shift. For those who have, it’s truly a case of “If you know, you know.”
In the military, you also learn how to tell military time and a whole new alphabet! Let’s not forget arriving on those white buses to the sounds of screaming from this person called a drill sergeant! To always hearing, “hurry up and wait” to “who do you think you are private,” our life was never the same especially after going through intake processing, known as “reception.” Nothing was receptive about this process — from the military issued gear and equipment to the glasses you received, known as BCGs (birth control glasses), the most hideous pair of glasses you’ve ever seen, like coke bottle frames- this was our new reality, our new home, and our new family. From eating chow to meeting people you would have never encountered; this was your new way of life. There was no choice in what you wanted to do and no going home. This built unity; we laughed and cried together. We did it together…
In the civilian world, you are responsible solely for yourself. In the military, you are responsible for a weapon and a “battle buddy,” another human being. God forbid you are caught without your battle buddy or your weapon — you don’t even want to imagine that scenario. It was a place where if one person did something wrong, we all were “smoked” because there was no individuality, only one team. This change is profound because you never did anything alone. If you did, you understood the severity associated with it. Learning to rely on a team and look out for your fellow comrades was the goal, regardless of race or background. The values instilled were clear: “You are your brother’s keeper.”
Suppression of Mental Health Needs
In the military, there’s a strong culture of suppressing mental health needs. Service members are often taught to prioritize the mission over their well-being, leading to a silent but pervasive issue where mental health concerns are not addressed. This suppression can make it incredibly difficult for veterans to acknowledge their need for support once they leave the service.
Reprogramming and Mental Health
When entering the military, service members undergo a form of psychological reprogramming where the mission becomes the primary focus, often at the expense of mental health and wellness. This mindset, reinforced by the culture of viewing medical appointments or “sick call” as signs of weakness, teaches service members to suppress their feelings and emotions. This learned suppression can lead to significant mental health issues post-service, as veterans struggle to adapt to a civilian environment that values emotional expression and self-care. Having served in the Army myself, I can attest to the psychological impact of this reprogramming. This mindset can have long-lasting effects, making it difficult to seek help or even recognize when help is needed.
Seeking VA Services: Not a Crutch, But a Right
One of the most significant points Joe and I discussed is the stigma around seeking VA services. Many veterans view it as a crutch or a sign of weakness. However, it’s crucial to understand that accessing VA services is a right, not a weakness. When you enlist, you enter into a contract where you commit to serving your country, and in return, you’re entitled to benefits that include healthcare and mental health services. Completing your part of the contract means you deserve these benefits and seeking them is part of ensuring your well-being.
Embracing the New Chapter
Transitioning from military to civilian life is not the end; it’s merely a new chapter. The skills, discipline, and experiences gained during military service are incredibly valuable and sought after in the civilian job market. It’s essential to leverage these skills to continue writing your narrative. Employers recognize and value the unique attributes that veterans bring to the table, such as leadership, resilience, and the ability to work under pressure. There are many different services that are ready to help you make this transition a smooth “landing.”
Honoring Thy Self
It’s time to change the narrative! Seeking support is not a sign of weakness but a step toward healing and growth. As veterans, we must embrace the benefits and services available to us and understand that it’s okay to not be okay. Transitioning to civilian life is challenging, but it’s also an opportunity to apply the valuable skills learned in the military to new endeavors. Remember, it’s not the end; it’s just the beginning of a new chapter.
And always it’s okay to seek help — because taking care of your mental health is part of taking care of your mission. Remember, it is not the end, it is only a new transition- enjoy the ride!
Until next time, stay well and take care…
Zelina Chinwoh, MSW, LCSW
To connect with Joe McGee, his platform and his podcasts “SOVEREIGN” and “Combat to Commerce” LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josephmcgee36
For more related content like this, be sure to listen to “The Dear Unapologetically Me” podcast on Apple or Spotify. Also, check out The Healing Experience Now Website with all exclusive content and our YouTube page at The Healing Experience Now.
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