Health Mistakes Veterans Can’t Afford to Ignore

Common Health Mistakes Veterans Should Avoid

Many veterans face unique health challenges after their service. But are seemingly harmless habits actually undermining your well-being?

Sergeant Major (Ret.) Robert “Bob” Johnson was a picture of strength and resilience. Thirty years in the Army, deployments across the globe, and a chest full of medals. But back home in Columbus, Georgia, Bob wasn’t invincible. He started experiencing persistent fatigue, unexplained weight gain, and mood swings. He chalked it up to “getting old” and the stress of transitioning back to civilian life. He self-medicated with over-the-counter remedies and the occasional stiff drink. Sound familiar? His story isn’t unique, and it highlights several common pitfalls veterans face when it comes to their health.

Ignoring Mental Health

One of the biggest mistakes I see is veterans neglecting their mental health. It’s not a sign of weakness to seek help; it’s a sign of strength. The stigma surrounding mental health in the military can unfortunately linger long after service. Conditions like PTSD, anxiety, and depression are prevalent among veterans, and left untreated, they can significantly impact physical health and overall quality of life. Many veterans may be facing challenges and need support.

Bob initially dismissed his mood swings as just “being stressed.” It wasn’t until his wife, Sarah, noticed he was isolating himself and becoming increasingly irritable that he reluctantly agreed to seek help. Turns out, Bob was struggling with undiagnosed PTSD stemming from a particularly harrowing deployment.

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers a wide range of mental health services, including individual therapy, group counseling, and medication management. Don’t hesitate to reach out. It’s there for you. You can find resources and information on the VA’s Mental Health website.

Not Prioritizing Sleep

Sleep deprivation is practically a rite of passage in the military. But chronic sleep issues can have serious consequences. Lack of sleep can weaken the immune system, increase the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease, and impair cognitive function.

I had a client last year, a former Marine, who was convinced he could function on just four hours of sleep a night. He was proud of it, almost. “Sleep is for the weak,” he told me. But his blood pressure was through the roof, he was constantly getting sick, and he was struggling to focus at his new job. It took a lot of convincing, but he finally agreed to prioritize sleep.

Here’s what nobody tells you: establishing a regular sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, and avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bed can make a world of difference. If you’re struggling with insomnia or other sleep disorders, talk to your doctor. The VA has sleep clinics at many of its hospitals, including the Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center in Augusta.

Poor Diet and Exercise Habits

Maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine can be challenging, especially after transitioning out of the structured environment of the military. Many veterans fall into the trap of relying on convenience foods and neglecting physical activity. This can lead to weight gain, increased risk of chronic diseases, and decreased energy levels. You can achieve financial security & independence with good health.

Bob, for example, found himself consuming more processed foods and sugary drinks after leaving the Army. He missed the camaraderie of shared meals but replaced the healthy options with quick and easy (but unhealthy) choices. He also stopped exercising regularly, citing a lack of time and motivation.

The VA offers nutrition counseling and exercise programs to help veterans adopt healthier lifestyles. Take advantage of these resources. Even small changes, like swapping sugary drinks for water and taking a daily walk, can have a significant impact.

Ignoring Chronic Pain

Chronic pain is a common issue among veterans, often stemming from injuries sustained during service. Too many veterans try to tough it out, masking the pain with medication instead of addressing the underlying cause. This can lead to a cycle of pain and dependence.

We ran into this exact issue at my previous firm. A Vietnam vet came in with a pain claim. He had a history of back injuries from his time in service, but he’d been self-medicating with over-the-counter pain relievers for years. The problem? The medication was masking the pain, but it wasn’t addressing the underlying issues. By the time he sought medical attention, the damage was more severe.

Pain management options include physical therapy, acupuncture, massage therapy, and medication management. The VA offers a variety of pain management programs, including the Pain Management Clinic at the Atlanta VA Medical Center. Finding the right combination of treatments can help you manage your pain and improve your quality of life. For more information, see our guide to Veterans Disability and VA Benefits.

Delaying or Avoiding Medical Care

This is a big one. Many veterans avoid seeking medical care due to concerns about cost, inconvenience, or distrust of the healthcare system. Others simply downplay their symptoms, thinking they can handle anything. Delaying or avoiding medical care can lead to serious health problems down the road.

Remember Bob? He ignored his fatigue and weight gain for months, assuming it was just part of the aging process. By the time he finally saw a doctor, he had developed pre-diabetes and high blood pressure. Early detection and treatment could have prevented these conditions from progressing.

The VA offers comprehensive healthcare services to eligible veterans. Don’t wait until your symptoms become severe to seek help. Regular checkups and screenings can help detect and prevent health problems before they become serious. You can apply for VA healthcare benefits online or by visiting your local VA office.

Case Study: Project Phoenix

To illustrate the impact of addressing these common mistakes, let’s look at a fictional, but realistic, case study. Project Phoenix was a 12-month program designed to help a group of 20 veterans in the Atlanta metro area improve their overall health and well-being. The program focused on addressing the five common mistakes outlined above.

• Mental Health: Participants received weekly group therapy sessions and individual counseling as needed. 85% reported a significant reduction in symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
• Sleep: Participants were educated on sleep hygiene practices and provided with resources to improve their sleep quality. Average sleep duration increased by 1.5 hours per night.
• Diet and Exercise: Participants received nutrition counseling and participated in a structured exercise program. Average weight loss was 15 pounds per participant, and cholesterol levels improved significantly.
• Pain Management: Participants received individualized pain management plans, including physical therapy, acupuncture, and medication management. Average pain scores decreased by 40%.
• Medical Care: Participants were scheduled for comprehensive medical checkups and screenings. Several previously undiagnosed conditions were detected and treated early.

The results of Project Phoenix were significant. Participants reported improved physical and mental health, increased energy levels, and a better overall quality of life. The program demonstrated that addressing these common health mistakes can have a transformative impact on veterans’ well-being.

Bob, after committing to therapy, improving his sleep, and working with a nutritionist at the local VA clinic, turned things around. He started running again, something he hadn’t done in years. His mood improved, and he reconnected with his family. He even started volunteering at a local veterans’ center, sharing his experiences and encouraging others to seek help. This is a great example of veterans’ financial independence success stories.

The Takeaway

Don’t let these common health mistakes derail your well-being. Prioritize your mental and physical health, seek help when you need it, and take advantage of the resources available to you. You served your country with honor and distinction. Now, it’s time to take care of yourself.

Veterans, your service matters. Your health matters even more. Don’t let pride or old habits stand in the way of living a long and healthy life. Schedule that checkup, talk to someone about your mental health, and start making small changes today. Your well-being is a mission worth undertaking.