Re-entering Civilian Life After Active Duty

Leaving the structure of military life can be tough. With a clear plan and the right support, it is also a fresh opportunity. Veterans who suffer a traumatic event while on active duty are more likely to have issues after returning home (Pew Research). If you are a veteran coming home, these tips can help.  

Find employment

Think about the skills you learned during your service. Leadership, problem-solving and adaptability are all valuable in the workforce. Connect with veteran organizations. These can provide resume workshops, job fairs and employment counseling. Reach out to military peers for job leads and advice. Use any G.I. Bill benefits to pursue education for a new career path.  

Reconnect with family & friends

You may find that loved ones don’t understand your military experiences. Give yourself and others time to adjust. Be open about your needs. Plan activities to catch up and create new memories. If you want to reconnect with old friends who weren’t in the military, it’s okay to acknowledge new differences. Focus on f inding what you have in common. 

Stay in touch with military friends

Military friendships are built on a unique shared experience. These friendships are valuable after you return home. Stay in touch with your military friends through regular check-ins or by joining veteran organizations. These groups also provide access to resources that help with career development, mental health and  social connection. 

Plan your military exit

If you’re still in active duty but preparing to leave, start planning early. Build a timeline for your finances, resume and next career steps. Many services offer transition assistance programs (TAP) that help veterans with job training. Leaving the military is a big life change, but it can be an exciting new chapter.