Transitioning from the military to civilian life can certainly be a challenge. Many servicemembers struggle with adjusting to the different lifestyle, but a new program from the Department of Defense aims to make it easier for troops to find employment opportunities, return to school or start a business, according to Military.com.
Known as Transition GPS, the program features several different components. For instance, the 5-Day Core Curriculum gives servicemembers the chance to sit in on classes focused on financial planning, what benefits are available to them and how to transition their skills to the civilian workforce. Additionally, the Pre-Separation Assessment and Individual Counseling component gives troops the chance to talk about their career goals and what they expect out of their transition.
The effort on behalf of the DOD may help make life after the military a bit easier for servicemembers. According to a 2011 study from Pew Research Center, approximately 44 percent of post-9/11 veterans had some difficulty re-entering civilian life.
Researchers also determined that there were a number of factors that made transition harder. Those who experience emotional or physical trauma during their service often encountered the greatest obstacles. Additionally, knowing someone who was killed or injured also had an impact.