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Topic: “Transitioning From Service”

Read Stories > Topics > 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.

Therapy Equips Veteran To Navigate Depression

After Mary left the Army and became a military spouse, the Veteran experienced feelings of depression and anxiety. Cognitive behavioral therapy and other tools for managing her symptoms have given her confidence that she can weather the low days, and outdoor activities like bird-watching lift her spirits.

3-minute read

Depression, Stress and Anxiety, Transitioning From Service

Therapy Helps Veteran Regain Sense of Self After Injury

When Tiffany left the Army after sustaining an injury, she was in constant pain and felt deeply depressed. Therapy helped her regain her sense of self and become the example she wanted to be for her son. “My life has changed since I got mental health treatment,” she says.

2-minute read

Physical Injury, PTSD, Depression, Transitioning From Service

Therapy Helped Marine Navigate Grief and Transition

Marissa’s transition from active-duty service got off to a rough start, compounded by the death of a fellow Marine. Then therapy helped the Marine Corps Reservist strengthen her relationships and feel more connected.

2-minute read

Family and Relationships, Transitioning From Service, Depression, Stress and Anxiety

Veteran Says Readiness for Support Is “Step 1” for Healing

After initially resisting the idea of mental health support, Stefan actively sought the therapy that gave him tools to manage his TBI, PTSD, and bipolar disorder symptoms. “It directly translates into my life being happier,” the Marine Corps Veteran says.

4-minute read

Bipolar Disorder, Traumatic Brain Injury, Transitioning From Service, PTSD, Feeling on Edge

Vietnam Veterans Share Their Mental Health Journeys

Vietnam Veterans recount how hostile receptions at home kept them from talking about their service and its personal impact—and how their decisions to reach out for mental health treatment, years or decades later, made a difference in their lives.

2-minute read

PTSD, Problems with Alcohol, Transitioning From Service

Mental Health Care Inspires Veterans To Embrace New Passions

This Mental Health Month, learn how some Veterans pursued treatment that helped them empower their recovery, manage their symptoms, embrace their passions, and improve their lives.

5-minute read

Transitioning From Service, PTSD, Family and Relationships, Stress and Anxiety, Depression, Problems with Alcohol

Mental Health Treatment Gives These Veterans a New Start

Addressing mental health challenges can open up new opportunities in family relationships, career pursuits, community connections and more. Veterans Tom, Michelle and Tony share the ways they blossomed after they sought treatment.

4-minute read

Transitioning From Service, PTSD, Family and Relationships, Military Sexual Trauma, Trouble Sleeping, Depression, Stress and Anxiety, Problems with Alcohol

Navy Veteran Charts New Course After Substance Misuse

Drug and alcohol misuse and untreated symptoms of PTSD caught up to Rick when he was arrested after an incident at his home on Christmas Eve. This was the moment that prompted him to seek the treatment that turned his life around.

3-minute read

Problems with Drugs, Problems with Alcohol, Financial and Legal Issues, PTSD, Transitioning From Service

Veteran Overcomes Her Fear of Mental Health Care

This Air Force Veteran, who survived a terrorist bombing at her barracks, says requesting mental health care from women providers made it less intimidating to seek support through VA, enabling her to get the help she needed.

5-minute read

Family and Relationships, PTSD, Transitioning From Service

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 Relationships

Marine 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, Depression

Family 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 Service

Families 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 Word

Veterans 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 Service

Enduring 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 Sleeping

A 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 Service

Veteran’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 Injury

Managing 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, Depression

Next 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, Flashbacks

Trauma, 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 Alcohol

Managing 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 Edge

Stop 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, Flashbacks

Support 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, Depression

More 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 Anxiety

Healing 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 Service

Helping 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 Service

Reclaiming 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 Anxiety

Turning 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 Relationships

Regaining 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 Sleeping

Painting 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 Service

Four 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 Anxiety

Retirement 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, Depression

Living 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 Service

A 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 Service

From 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, Homelessness

The 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, Depression

Torn 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 Anxiety

Hiding 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, Suicide

Steps 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 Alcohol

Support 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 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 Alcohol

Learn 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

"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 Service

Take 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

These 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 Anxiety

One 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 Alcohol

Stay 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 Anxiety

My 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 Service

My 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 Service

Veterans 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 Service

A 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 Service

5 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, Spirituality

Women 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 Service

Strength 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 Service

Finding 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 Service

Back 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 Veterans

What 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 Aging

This 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 Service

Veterans: 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 Sleeping

Four 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