No mental help for long-time military folks

Question

Ok so why does the military take 6-12 weeks to de-program the recruits from civilian to military. But nothing at all is done to psychologically REQUIRE people who have been in the military for at least 10 years to function in society again.

My ex spent over 20 years in the military. He retired and practically lost his mind because he coudldn't cope as civilian. It's like the military took him on a 20 year bus ride and dropped him off at the corner and said....deal with it. No one saluting him any more, nobody cared about his accomplishments (unlike the military who pins you for everything you do), and at the office civilians care more about who brought the donuts than going over the orders for the day.

Can you imagine the psychological effects? Tha'ts like Oprah waking up one day and nobody caring or knowing who she is.

There needs to be some type of 6-12 week re-entry counseling or something but the only thing they gave him was a resume writing program or a program dealing with how to get a job.

I'd like to hear your thoughts.

Answer 1

The things in the civvy world that you describe indicate a failure of that world, not of the standards your Husband upheld while Active... so, what you are really saying is he should downgrade to the failures of the civvy world? Ummm, nope.

Answer 2

It sounds to me like he made his entire life the military.  I just retired after 23 years and I have no issues in the real world.  Now it's time for him to stand on his own two feet  and earn the respect in a different way with hard work.  Learn to be more independent.  I hold a good job, I have a house and pets.  Deal with it, why should that be the problem of the military.  He has insurance, he should seek counseling on his own if he can't handle it.

Answer 3

I spent 14 years in the Navy and I FUNCTION fine thank you.  I don't need to be "de-programed".

The military does not spend 6-12 weeks to de-program civilians either. Those weeks are used to help train someone.

Now I admit that there is a lot to learn about the military that is different but come on, really. Basic Training is important to get both physically and mentally prepared to do a job. You have to be able to function in a hostile environment and that type of work takes serious training.

As far as nobody saluting you when you step off the bus..who are you kidding? He can go to any base and still receive honors as a retired officer. (if that is what he is).  

They do have a transitional training and the VA offers transition assistance. But seriously get a life.

The VA gives psychological counsling to seperated/retiered members who seek it and need it.

I am a Veteran myself. And it wasn't that hard to adjust. I had to feel my way around for a few things, but that is part of life. Like graduating High School or College. or any new event people go through.

Answer 4

Hmmm..very interesting...

Since you don't give the Service it is hard to give you an answer...

If he is a Combat Veteran...I think there is a lot more going on with him

than just reajusting to civilian life ???

If he is please contact me... [e-mail]

He can go to any Dept of VA Hospital and receive Five (5) years of FREE

Medical treatment...(Counsoling)

Answer 5

I've known more people who HAVEN'T had problems than those that have.  I'm sorry to say this, but I've known more Offiers to have problems than Enisted.  Officers are so used to being saluted and having thier asses kissed that they can't function without the attention. I am by no means saying all Officers are like this but I know plenty that are.    You don't carry rank when you retire.  Civilians could care less if you were a Colonel or a private.  They dont' care about ribbons and awards.  He needs to earn their respect by hard work and dedication like everyone else.  

   If they need counseling, seek it.  But it should be no means be required.  The military provides separation briefings te member can go to for information prior to separation.

Answer 6

The Army's training of recruits to fit their new military life is practical for the Army. Once you're separating from the Army, you are not really an asset and there is no further need to spend time and resources on your transition.

I find it crappy, but the military is not a charitable organization. Besides, being in the military is supposed to change people into more efficient workers and people in general. I, personally, cannot imagine them wanting to go back to worrying about who's bringing the donuts. :)

Answer 7

thets just the way our current administration works, after you do what they want u to do, they just leave u for dead. have u seen the way our gov't treats our vetarins. just go to one of their hospitals and u will see exposed pipes and 20 yr old mold on the walls. It's Terrible!