Many of our nation’s returning veterans need tremendous help. Without adequate support services, their transition to civilian life can include a number of difficulties which require assistance.
Unemployment
According to some estimates, veteran unemployment is nearly twice the national average. In part, this may be due to the veteran’s inability to transfer military job skills to the civilian sector, or lack of access to a network of civilian business and social contacts that could greatly facilitate an employment search. Unless they seek out companies that place a hiring priority on veterans, many can find themselves competing in an especially difficult job market with other, higher-skilled employment seekers. The job search can be particularly challenging for disabled veterans.
Difficulty reconnecting in relationships
Military deployment requires that adjustments be made by both the veteran and the veteran’s family. Upon returning home, some veterans find that they, themselves, as well as important relationships, have changed significantly over the course of their deployment. This can result in reconnections that are fraught with challenges, as everyone tries to adjust to the realities – and, oftentimes, new dynamics – of these renewed relationships.
Untreated Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Some veterans turn to drugs and alcohol to ease the emotional pain that can result from the conditions they endured during combat – as well as a difficult transition to civilian life. Some consider suicide. Others find themselves in conflict with the criminal justice system, an alarming trend that has spurred the creation of special Veterans Treatment Courts that now operate in approximately twenty states to address the unique needs of returning service members, including the lack of readjustment services that can cause them to engage in anti-social behaviors.
Homelessness
Increasing numbers of veterans – including some with distinguished, even heroic, military records – are living on the streets due to financial, emotional and other stressors that can stem from their military service. The problem is not confined solely to veterans of recent war efforts, like those in Iraq and Afghanistan: It is estimated that almost half of homeless veterans served in Vietnam, but homelessness is also found among those who have served in Korea and other wars, including World War II.
Adjusting to disabilities
Despite the declining number of veterans overall, it is estimated that the number of disabled veterans has increased 25 percent since 2001. This is mainly due to increases in the severity of wounds, as well as the use of high-tech procedures: devastating injuries that would previously have been mortal are now treatable, thanks to advances in medical technology.
Through community outreach, informational seminars and counseling, Unity Foundation Group links disabled veterans to a variety of help, including assistance with filing claims for disability compensation and pensions; vocational rehabilitation; and continuing healthcare.