Recent events have impacted all of us – on different levels, in all aspects of life, physical and emotional.
It has been a year of social distancing, self-isolation and virtual celebration. With all that is happening around us, we all have endured physical stress, mental health issues and spiritual distress. As of now, there’s a ray of hope with vaccines already available but it is still far until we fully recover from all our losses.
The pandemic has proven to affect our veteran and retired defence forces in several ways – physically, mentally, financially and spiritually. They are the most hard-hit group since not only are they vulnerable physically but also financially since the pandemic has resulted in a great economic shock.
Many veterans are experiencing unemployment, lack of health care and even delay in financial support. With these negativities, keeping hopeful and feeling the spiritual abundance is a big question for our veteran and retired defence forces.
Effect of the Current Situation to Our Veterans
Many countries tried to stop the spread of the virus with widespread lockdowns and social distancing. These are important measures needed to minimize the effect of the pandemic. But this also resulted in self-isolation and even limited access to physical and mental healthcare for our veterans. During this time, it is harder for them and even for all of us, to keep our positivity and spiritual richness, which could lead to feelings of emptiness and loneliness.
There are recent studies that reported an increase in anxiety and depression with the majority of people because of our current situation. The recent events have added stress to already drained active duty service members and veterans.
Below are some of the effects of the current situation on our veterans and retired defence forces.
- Increased isolation
With a number of our veterans experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), connecting and building a relationship with their family and friends are very important. This is a good way to improve their mental health. People, in general, are known to do their best when they know that they have their support system around.
But this support system is harder to maintain because of this pandemic. Our veterans can easily feel alone again and experience PTSD because of the current situation, making it harder to meet friends and family members.
- Mental health is worsening
According to Rowen (2020)[1], a veteran expert, there is an average of 20 veterans who commit suicide everyday. And with the current situation, this number is expected to increase since some of our veterans are in need to re-establish themselves in their community. They have to feel again that they are needed, and that they can execute their duty well.
But with social distancing and isolation happening, this can trigger symptoms of mental and spiritual distress for our veteran and retired defence forces.
- Decrease in access to health facilities
The regular check-ups to hospitals, clinics and dental services of our veterans have been cut off because some facilities are closed and some are being used as testing sites. And of course, some veterans would prefer to just stay at home than expose themselves outside.
This is a hard time for all of us but, of course, we cannot just feel helpless. Doug Durie can help you prepare and protect yourselves and your family for the tough times ahead.
Keeping Spiritual Abundance in the midst of Uncertainty
Here are some ways to keep the positivity and spiritual richness of our veteran and retired defence forces.
- Take a media break
Social media are rewarding as they provide us with current information around the world. And in most cases, our veterans are always keen on being updated on news and what’s happening. But excessive use of social media can also trigger mental health issues. They can result in anxiety and stress especially during this time of the pandemic. So, it is also vital to take social media breaks in promoting well-being and spiritual abundance.
Our veterans can take this opportunity to meditate and greatly appreciate the life that they have. They can watch the news, take the information they need from it, and then turn it off. After that, they can do their normal activities like exercising and reading books.
- Build a virtual social network
Most of us are forced to stay home to comply with authorities, and also to protect ourselves against the pandemic. Social isolation is hard for us, especially for our older adults and veterans.
But take this as a great time to make connections to people via phone or online platforms. Veterans can take this as an addition to their personal growth and strength as they learn to use modern technologies. Connecting to people is a great way for them to combat loneliness and can help them cope with stress. Having support from people you love is the best medicine against difficult times.
- Keep a healthy routine
Staying at home does not mean you cannot have a healthy lifestyle. Health is more important than anything else right now for our veterans. Eating healthy food and exercising regularly are just some options they have. Exercise is known for its physical benefits but it also provides mental and spiritual health benefits.
For many veterans, the road to recovering from this difficult time can be done with the help of their loved ones. It may be steep but it can be accomplished.
The feeling of being afraid this time is only natural with a lot of things going on and with major changes happening. But remember, holding on to a positive attitude and not focusing on spiritual distress can help you make it through the day.
With Doug Durie, we value a positive outlook in life paired with needed actions to make us overcome this current situation. Let us be your guide.
Sources:
[1] Rowen, J. (2020, April 16). 8 ways veterans are particularly at risk from the coronavirus pandemic. The Conversation.
[2] Mozes, A. (2021, April 9). Nearly Half of U.S. Veterans Cited ‘Personal Growth’ During Pandemic: Survey. US News.
