Abstract
Veterans face many challenges upon discharge from the United States military. Reentry into civilian life can be difficult causing stress around issues of finances, relationships, employment, housing, and education to name a few. In order to cope with these stressors, often veterans turn to the use of alcohol and/ or drugs, are diagnosed with severe mental health challenges including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and many even contemplate and attempt suicide. Veterans continue to take their own lives at an alarming rate. This paper will explore the several challenges veterans encounter during their transition from their military life back to their civilian life. This paper will also explore the increasing rate of suicide and preventative measures the Department of Veterans Affairs is taking. Implications for Social Workers and future researchers will be explored.
Keywords: Veterans, Suicide, Military, Transition
