Medically Retired from Military

by Marcus

Well... it's been 93 days of leave and now. I'm 4 days into retirement. After serving for over 14 years, it's finally over.

I've had a difficult career mostly because I was misunderstood on a daily basis. I kept my medical issues at bay until 2015, when they grew out of control and everything got worse very quickly.

For the past 4 yrs, I'd wished so much for the day to come in which I would reach retirement and not have to come to work and work with the people I had to work for. Even though I disliked my environment, and may not have felt valued by my peers, I felt valued by my customers.

Turns out, my wish came true, and here I am.

However, over the 3 months, it's been a weird transition. I don't quite know what to do. I'm not working because of anxiety issues and depression that got me retired in the first place.

I want to find others like me that are close to my age or so that I can possibly relate to... I'm only 34.

Comments for Medically Retired from Military

Click here to add your own comments

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE!
by: Paul/NY

Marcus,

First I would like to thank you for your service to our country. Then I believe, while you are in the transition stage, which can be confusing, you should contact the VA and make sure you are receiving the best benefits.

The service benefits and VA often overlap, but the amount of disability etc., can be affected by which system you use. If you are unsure, make sure you contact a National Service Officer(NSO) to advise you. You can make contact with one through the DAV.

Secondly, if you are comfortable, I would volunteer, with the VA, and possibly look forward to continuing in that capacity, while looking fore employment with that organization, or another, if that is what you choose.

Thirdly, see what you are entitled from all government agencies including Social Security.
Then enjoy the rest of your life seeking the peace that you are entitled to.

Again, thank you for your service.

Moving Forward
by: Char

I get the stressor of working in a military environment. It has gotten bad in the past 8 years. I retired after over 30 years and I do not miss it.

Wendy is right - put that experience in the rearview mirror and move on with life. You are so young and have endless possibilities in front of you.

You most likely have the GI bill you paid into.
Go back to school or a trade school and pursue your passion. They say if you work doing what you love, you will never work another day in your life.

Ponder what brings you joy and peace...something you get excited about doing that brings fulfillment - and seek employment doing that very thing - even if you have to seek training or education to do it.

For the stress and anxiety - stay active and keep fit. I know in the military you had required physical training - but don't stop staying active because you are out of the military. It hurts no one but you if you get out of shape. Keeping a daily work out schedule helps with stress and anxiety reduction and is time you cut out of the day that is just for you. You deserve and need that time so take it!

I get your feeling of being unappreciated. That is often seen in the military. A lot of people who make rank on the back of other people often have to make others feel lousy so they can feel good about themselves.

Sadly, that practice is not restricted to the military and it is seen in many work environments. Often we just have to take the humble road and ignore it. I always figured as long as I could look in the mirror and know I did my very best, brought my A game on everyday and knew my job better than anyone I could ignore the lack of respect. I saw them as insecure people and felt sorry for them.

Don't let your working experience in the military define the rest of your life. Be an overcomer and move on to bigger and better things that bring you peace and joy along with some income!

If you liked what you did in the military, I know they gave you good training - if you can filter that into the civilian sector and enjoy it then go for it. If not, use the GI Bill and go get the training and education to do what you want to do in life.

Another thought - do some research on natural nutrition and depression/anxiety. You simply may be lacking in vital nutrients, minerals or vitamins that are adding to you stress. Be sure to check interaction with any medications you are on and with your doctor before beginning any supplements. But diet and food choices matter too.

Blessing be upon you.
Thank you for your service to our country.

Do not stay "retired"....
by: Wendy

Please Marcus -- do not stay retired. You are only 34... the longer you remain anxious/depressed and unemployed, the more likely you will never return to work.

Maybe your military life didn't suit you... go to the next adventure in life. You are only 34... you have many many opportunities if you will only open your heart and mind to them!

You do not want to live on a fixed income for, say 50 years -- age 34 - 84.

You do not want to be bored with no daily challenges for your lifetime.

I could go on and on, but I pray you see that you are not in a GOOD situation at all. This might have been what you hoped for -- we are what we think about.

BUT -- you were thinking with the wrong mindset. You hoped you'd get to retire -- and you did. BUT -- that is not a good thing for you.

Please manage your anxiety via meds, then start to dream about your future and take A_C_T_I_O_N!

Find employment that suits you better. Co-workers will always be that -- just co-workers (and yes, I get military rank is a bit more, they kinda own you). You will find a more accepting job that appreciates your skills and allows you to be you.

Don't let others manage your life for you. Take control of your own life. please.

Seriously... sending prayers for you!

p.s. Please take "retirement" OUT of your vocabulary completely for many years to come.

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Military Retirement Anxiety.