Topic: “Transitioning From Service”
Learn more and watch videos of Veterans sharing their experiences with transitioning from service and what they did to get on a path to recovery.
Veterans’ Next Mission: Serving Those Who Served
These Veterans took different paths after military service, but they arrived at the same destination: becoming part of a community and helping fellow Veterans. Hear their stories in the newly released Season Two of the Make the Connection: Real Veterans. Real Stories. podcast.
4-minute read
Transitioning From Service, Student Veterans, Financial and Legal Issues, PTSD, Jobs and Employment, Problems with Alcohol, Homelessness, Family and RelationshipsMarine Combat Veteran Felt Lost Before Finding His Purpose
Sam came home from serving in the Marines feeling lost. Therapy helped him process his traumatic combat experiences and grief. Finding his new purpose as a teacher and mentor also helped him heal.
3-minute read
Suicide, Anger and Irritability, Transitioning From Service, Feelings of Hopelessness, DepressionFamily and Mental Health Support Help Army Veteran After TBI
After shock waves from mortar blasts in Iraq left him with a traumatic brain injury, this Army Veteran found the support he needed to navigate his new life.
4-minute read
Anger and Irritability, Physical Injury, Transitioning From ServiceFamilies Can Spot Signs of Veterans’ Mental Health Concerns
Family members and friends are often the first to see anger, isolation and other signs that a Veteran may be experiencing a mental health challenge.
4-minute read
Family and Relationships, Transitioning From Service, Spread the WordVeterans on Managing Change and Anxiety
Two women Veterans suggest that confronting past trauma can help ease the anxiety associated with change and uncertainty.
3-minute read
Stress and Anxiety, Student Veterans, Transitioning From ServiceEnduring Harassment, Confronting Pain and Finding Support: A Veteran’s Experience
Shirley, an Army and Navy Veteran, hid her experiences of sexual harassment and assault attempts for years. But after seeking treatment for a physical health concern, she also found mental health support that addressed painful memories and helped her find herself again.
3-minute read
Military Sexual Trauma, Stress and Anxiety, Transitioning From Service, Trouble SleepingA Vietnam Veteran’s Journey: Retirement, Depression, Therapy and a New Life
Transitioning from the Navy into a politically divided world was not easy for Michael. He shares his story of experiencing depression and isolation after serving in Vietnam and then finding a new perspective that helped him create a life he loves.
3-minute read
Family and Relationships, Depression, Transitioning From ServiceVeteran’s PTSD Treatment Led Him To Help Others
Seeking and finding the right treatment for ADHD and PTSD helped Jordan, an Army combat Veteran, process the trauma he had tried to forget. Then the former medic found meaning in helping fellow Veterans manage their challenges.
4-minute read
PTSD, Transitioning From Service, Physical InjuryManaging the Pain
A 500-pound IED nearly destroyed Brandon’s spine and ultimately damaged his mental health. When the U.S. Army infantryman started isolating himself and slipped into depression, his wife and VA care team helped him recover.
3-minute read
Physical Injury, Transitioning From Service, DepressionAvoid a Transition Rut
Most Veterans go through some period of adjustment while transitioning out of military service. VA’s specialized resources can help them adapt to civilian life.
2-minute read
Transitioning From Service, Feeling on EdgeNext Mission: College
Stephen didn’t consider getting VA help with his transition out of the U.S. Army because he felt that other Veterans were more deserving of support. But when his adjustment to student life proved difficult, VA counselors gave Stephen the tools and resources he needed to succeed in his new mission.
3-minute read
PTSD, Transitioning From Service, FlashbacksTrauma, Transitioning and Treatment
Two Veterans discuss the traumas of their combat service in Iraq, the difficulties they faced when they transitioned out of the U.S. Army, and the therapies that worked for them.
4-minute read
Nightmares, Family and Relationships, Transitioning From Service, Traumatic Brain Injury, Trouble Sleeping, Problems with AlcoholManaging Sensory Triggers
Three Veterans talk about the VA resources that taught them how to manage their sensory triggers.
3-minute read
Transitioning From Service, Stress and Anxiety, Feeling on EdgeStop the Free Fall
A new public service announcement from Make the Connection reminds Veterans that resources and support can help them navigate life’s challenges.
1-minute read
Transitioning From Service, Feelings of Hopelessness, FlashbacksSupport Comes In Many Forms
Family members, friends, fellow Veterans, clergy members, co-workers, and counselors can all provide support to Veterans going through a tough time. But no matter who provides it, one thing is clear: Everybody needs support at some time. During Mental Health Month and all year round, learn how seeking support from many sources helped these Veterans work through their mental health challenges.
4-minute read
PTSD, Transitioning From Service, DepressionMore Than Mental Health
Three Veterans talk about the surprising ways their lives changed as they started managing their mental health symptoms. Learn what these Veterans Know during Mental Health Month and all year round.
4-minute read
Transitioning From Service, Problems with Alcohol, Stress and AnxietyHealing To Live; Living To Heal
After Navy service, Aaron purposely pulled away from his loved ones, thinking he was protecting himself emotionally. Then he reached a new conclusion: He had to start living to start healing.
2-minute read
Anger and Irritability, Nightmares, Transitioning From ServiceHelping One Can Help Many
Kyle experienced PTSD after witnessing heavy combat casualties in Iraq, where he served as a Marine Corps field radio operator. His transition back into civilian life was rough and included a trip or two to jail and a couple of stays at psychiatric hospitals. Some caring Veterans intervened, urging him to get help at VA. That’s where Kyle learned how to manage his PTSD, and he now helps other Veterans find their footing.
2-minute read
PTSD, Problems with Alcohol, Transitioning From ServiceReclaiming Happiness
Hear how Daniel, a U.S. Navy photographer, learned to manage his PTSD symptoms with VA support.
3-minute read
PTSD, Transitioning From Service, Stress and AnxietyTurning Grief Into Giving Back
As a U.S. Army Veteran, the wife of an Army Veteran, and the mother of a fallen Soldier, Lauri has experienced military life in a way that few others have. Now, she works directly with Veterans and their families as a county Veteran Service Officer, and her life experience earns her clients’ trust right away.
3-minute read
Transitioning From Service, Retirement and Aging, Family and RelationshipsRegaining Control Through Mindfulness
Gus had trouble sleeping and managing his emotions until his therapist introduced him to meditation.
3-minute read
PTSD, Transitioning From Service, Trouble SleepingPainting a Picture of Recovery
Like many Veterans, Mike had trouble expressing himself and dealing with his trauma. Then he discovered art therapy.
4-minute read
PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, Transitioning From ServiceFour Inspiring Stories From Women Veterans
Discover how these four women Veterans have overcome some of life’s toughest challenges and learned to thrive by taking care of their mental health.
7-minute read
Transitioning From Service, PTSD, Stress and AnxietyRetirement Readiness
Retirement can bring unexpected emotional pitfalls. Learn what to look out for from other Veterans who have been there before and find advice to enjoy the retirement you’ve earned.
6-minute read
Retirement and Aging, Transitioning From Service, DepressionLiving in the Present Can Create a Better Future
After years of moving from place to place, Brian stopped trying to outrun his past. By learning how to manage his PTSD symptoms and live in the present, Brian set a path toward a better future — for himself and his family.
3-minute read
PTSD, Family and Relationships, Transitioning From ServiceA New Year. A New Start.
Whether you are still transitioning from the military or you served decades ago, the new year is a great time to rediscover your purpose and passion for life.
5-minute read
Transitioning From ServiceFrom Ship to Shelter
Learn how Lidia, a U.S. Navy Veteran, overcame homelessness with the help of VA’s programs and resources.
3-minute read
Transitioning From Service, Depression, HomelessnessThe Power of Purpose and Laughter
After retiring from the U.S. Navy, Susan faced depression and PTSD. She found comfort and a new sense of purpose on the stand-up comedy stage.
5-minute read
PTSD, Transitioning From Service, DepressionTorn Between Worlds
Some Veterans experience trauma over and over because sudden flashbacks won't let them leave the past in the past.
5-minute read
PTSD, Flashbacks, Transitioning From Service, Depression, Stress and AnxietyHiding Pain in Plain Sight
Despite his many professional successes, Fred couldn’t outrun the survivor’s guilt he experienced after losing an air crew in a mission over Iraq. Therapy at VA, including EMDR treatment to reprocess his thoughts, allowed Fred to rediscover an emotion he didn’t realize he’d been missing.
2-minute read
PTSD, Transitioning From Service, SuicideSteps for Getting a Better Night’s Sleep
Veterans’ sleep can be affected by traumatic experiences, a racing mind, or old military routines, but there are steps you can take to create a healthier sleep routine.
5-minute read
Transitioning From Service, Trouble Sleeping, Feeling on Edge, Problems with AlcoholSupport for Women Veterans
“For You,” a new PSA from Make the Connection, highlights the challenges that women Veterans may face as mothers, wives, daughters, and friends.
2-minute read
Family and Relationships, Transitioning From Service, Stress and AnxietyLearn How Veterans Got Back on Track
Maybe you don’t connect with your therapist in your first appointment. Maybe the treatment doesn’t make a noticeable impact right off the bat. Or, maybe you feel like you’re taking all the right steps, but nothing’s changing.
4-minute read
PTSD, Transitioning From Service, Stress and Anxiety“Don’t Give Up”
The continued support of her son has helped Agatha, a U.S. Army Veteran, address the anxiety she has faced since leaving military service.
4-minute read
Anger and Irritability, Family and Relationships, Transitioning From Service, Depression, Problems with AlcoholTake the First Step Toward a Healthier Life
These Veterans had different reasons for seeking help, but the result was the same: After they took the first step on their mental health journey, their lives improved.
5-minute read
Jobs and Employment, PTSD, Transitioning From Service"They Didn’t Understand Why We Were Never There"
After returning home from her deployment, Nicole began to understand its effects on her children.
3-minute read
Family and Relationships, Transitioning From ServiceThese Post-9/11 Women Veterans Open Up About Their Mental Health Journeys
Women Veterans share the challenges of living with depression and anxiety after leaving the service — and the support they’ve found to overcome these issues.
3-minute read
Transitioning From Service, Depression, Stress and AnxietyOne Veteran Continues To “Adapt and Overcome” After Military Service
After leaving the Army, Jesse spent two years drinking alcohol to forget his experience in Iraq. When his drinking cost him a job, he realized he wasn’t the person he wanted to be. That’s when his military training took over.
4-minute read
Jobs and Employment, Transitioning From Service, Trouble Sleeping, Problems with AlcoholStay Active After Active Duty
Hear some Veterans describe how recreational activities enhance their mental well-being — and their lives.
3-minute read
PTSD, Transitioning From Service, Depression, Stress and AnxietyMy Story, My Connection: True Partnership
Daniel and Sara, a military couple, stand by each other’s side to overcome problems with alcohol and a loss of identity.
3-minute read
PTSD, Family and Relationships, Transitioning From ServiceMy Story, My Connection: Support Networks
We recently sat down with Steven and Moses, two Iraq War Veterans, to discuss their transition from service, mental health challenges and resources, and how to find a network of support.
2-minute read
Transitioning From ServiceVeterans on Finding Purpose After Service
Getting out of the military and returning to civilian life can present both opportunities and challenges.
1-minute read
Transitioning From ServiceA Call to Service After 9/11
Nathan was compelled to serve his country in response to 9/11. Hear his story of strength and recovery.
3-minute read
PTSD, Transitioning From Service5 Sources of Support, Right in Front of You
Mental health support can come in many forms. Whether it is counseling, medication, or other types of support, there are many paths to a stronger you.
6-minute read
Transitioning From Service, SpiritualityWomen Veterans: A Legacy of Service
During Women’s History Month, we honor the important role women Veterans play in our military and in communities across the country.
3-minute read
Transitioning From ServiceStrength in Numbers: Lessons Learned in Veterans Group Therapy
Learn about how group therapy can help Veterans cope with mental health issues and difficult transitions from military service.
3-minute read
Transitioning From ServiceFinding New Purpose After the Military
Veterans talk about how they adjusted to civilian life and found purpose after the military.
5-minute read
Transitioning From Service“I Never Realized That I Needed Help Too.”
For the National Day of the Deployed, Military Spouses Share Their Stories
5-minute read
Family and Relationships, Transitioning From ServiceBack to School: Pursuing College After the Military
Learn how you can pursue higher education after returning home from military service.
3-minute read
Transitioning From Service, Student VeteransWhat to Do After the Military?
What’s the next step after the military? How do skills from your service translate to qualifications for a new career or a civilian or government job? Here are a few tips.
4-minute read
Transitioning From Service, Retirement and AgingThis Military Couple Stood Side by Side
Veteran couples can face a unique challenge: How do I manage my own mental health while also supporting my partner? Read this military couple’s story.
3-minute read
Family and Relationships, Transitioning From ServiceVeterans: Choose Strength Over Silence
The latest Make the Connection video, "Strength Over Silence," highlights stories of how Veterans used their voices and reached out for mental health treatment to improve their lives.
3-minute read
Jobs and Employment, PTSD, Family and Relationships, Problems with Drugs, Transitioning From Service, Trouble SleepingFour Stories That Will Inspire You This Mental Health Awareness Month
Servicemembers continue to inspire us after their military service. Read four inspiring stories of Veterans who overcame challenges such as PTSD and problems with drugs.
6-minute read
PTSD, Problems with Drugs, Physical Injury, Military Sexual Trauma, Flashbacks, Transitioning From Service