AUGUST 22, 2022 – The war on terrorism started with attacks on the world trade center. Since then, millions of American soldiers have been deployed to play an active role in the line of duty. We have already learned from prior experiences that there are several harmful outcomes of active duty, like experiencing several mental conditions, including PTSD, getting caught up in substance abuse, and facing social exclusion, to name a few. If you want to help an active officer or a veteran returning from active service, follow the strategies below to make them transition back into society.
1. Providing Acknowledgment
Whether it’s your neighbor, family member, colleague, or friend, acknowledging their services is an excellent way to provide support. Sharing a few kind words and letting them know they were missed can boost their morale and confidence. Veterans are more appreciative of this positive behavior of being available, talking to them, and lending an ear to their problems.
Besides acknowledging their service and socializing with them, do ask them about their daily activities and whether they are currently working or not. Most veterans find it hard to adjust to society and find jobs. You can help them find a job if someone you know is hiring. Helping them in specific ways instead of asking whether they need help or not is the right way.
2. Avoiding Sensitive Discussions
Most of the time, people see active service as an exciting endeavor, but in reality, it is a stressful position with loads of responsibilities that cannot be fulfilled without true grit. Conversations like these can easily trigger anxiety and stress. Always avoid touching on sensitive topics like details of the combat, asking about a deceased killed in the line of duty, and discussing politics.
3. Helping With Substance Abuse
Active service can sometimes lead to trauma, resulting in post-traumatic stress disorder, especially when experiencing unresolved trauma. While suffering from trauma and PTSD, most veterans start self-medicating by using drugs and alcohol. Without realizing the outcomes, they can easily get hooked on these harmful drugs and start substance abuse.
Providing the right support alongside therapy and detox can drastically assist in coping with substance abuse. You can read more about the connection between PTSD and substance abuse and how detox could be beneficial in this situation. When executed correctly, body detox and the necessary therapy can lead to positive outcomes. There are several detox centers providing facilities specifically designed for veterans suffering from substance abuse. When choosing a detox center, make sure you only pick centers that have a track record of providing quality services and have made a name in their niche.
4. Finding Them a Companion Pet
Around 1/3rd of veterans returning from duty in Iraq and Afghanistan have reported developing PTSD sooner or later. Not to mention old veterans still dealing with post-war PTSD. To reduce the symptoms of PTSD and stress build-up, keeping a companion dog with them can significantly help. These dogs are trained to detect when someone is under stress or having anxiety attacks. They interrupt the stress and anxiety attacks by nudging and licking their human companion to divert their focus toward them.
5. Becoming a Volunteer
You can play an active role in getting them the required medical care. Disabled American Veterans is a non-profit focusing on improving the quality of life by assisting in claiming VA health benefits, catering to their medical needs, and working closely with the government to see to their general needs. The volunteers working there are required to volunteer at VA hospitals, drive them to medical appointments, and help with running errands or going out for grocery shopping. Visiting organizations like this will provide you with more information on how to become a volunteer.
6. Build Homes
A couple of non-profit organizations are helping veterans with injuries or mobility issues in building their homes. If you know construction work, volunteering for work positions is available in organizations like these. However, if you don’t have the required skill set, donating funds or a piece of land will do.
Besides considering the ways mentioned, pay special attention to helping homeless veterans improve their lives. You can help them and their families by providing hygiene essentials, clothing, access to medical care, warm meals, and even as simple as emotional support. Several community-centered organizations are working to resolve issues of homeless veterans starting from the grass-root level.
The challenges faced by each of the veterans vary. Spending time with them will aid in knowing the current issues they are facing. These insights make it easier to find a solution that works for their best interest.