Maintaining a healthy lifestyle enhances overall happiness and well-being. Military veterans can achieve healthy, happy living by regularly participating in wellness activities.

The importance of wellness in the post-military life of Veterans helps create a positive and stable future. However, the impact of military service and the transition to civilian life can be difficult. Any residual trauma from military service can compromise veterans’ health after leaving the military, so it is crucial to establish healthy habits and routines.

We know that military service is challenging, dangerous, and demanding. Unfortunately, transitioning back to civilian life can be even more difficult than military service. This predicament contributes to a decline in their overall health. To help veterans return to civilian life and adjust to their everyday lives, the government has created a department of Veteran Affairs (VA).

Looking After Our Own

Along with the general population, military members are experiencing increased suicide rates. Currently, serving members have been facing higher rates since 2017. The number of suicides among veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder is fourth. As far as veterans younger than 35 are concerned, it ranks second. Since 2015, members of the National Guard and nonactive veterans have faced the same challenges. It is, therefore, imperative that we care for veterans. After all, they have devoted many years of their lives to the service of their country.

Apart from PTSD, anxiety, and depression, mesothelioma is anotherillness in veterans. Cancer of this type is common in veterans as they’ve been exposed to asbestos during their service periods. Due to this, the government has set up a Mesothelioma Veterans Center that deals with veterans’ compensation so they won’t face any financial issues while treating mesothelioma.

To promote the health and well-being of veterans, here are some tips that will significantly improve their health and lifestyle, including regimens to maintain healthy nutrition, mental health, and physically active routines.

Eat a healthy diet

For good health, it is essential to eat nutritious and healthy meals. Knowing nutrition will help you maintain a healthy weight and gain more strength. You can plan your meals, avoid consuming extra calories and reduce the pressure of preparing meals. Avoiding junk food and soft drinks, which are high in sugar and carbs, is another simple strategy to stay healthy. Choose water and natural juices instead of sugary drinks.

Diabetes, cholesterol, and heart disease are all risks associated with a high-sugar diet. Fruits, vegetables, seafood, olive oil, and nuts are vital components of the Mediterranean diet, which is best for health and longevity.

Researchers at Harvard found that people who followed a healthy diet most rigorously had longer telomeres, which protect chromosomes from harm. Even people who just occasionally followed a nutritious diet enjoyed the benefits of longevity. A typical American eats one whole grain meal a day, which might be just one slice of bread for breakfast. It has been found that consuming three or more portions of fruit or vegetables can reduce death rates by around 20%.

Prioritize Mental Health

It is essential to maintain a healthy mental and psychological state. A person suffering from depression or trauma may find it challenging to perform daily tasks. Likewise, you may find it difficult to meet your obligations when you’re under stress. Even though some life difficulties benefit personal growth, excessive stress can lead to health problems. Furthermore, if you endure stress for an extended period, it might endanger your health. The importance of maintaining mental health cannot be overstated.

It is estimated that 10% of female and 5% of male veterans have Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). It is not easy to serve in the military and go to war. However, there is more at stake for you than just life or death. You can suffer from mental health problems as a veteran because ofyour experiences during active duty. For example, you might experience flashbacks, have difficulty sleeping, or even feel depressed when you think about the past.

Rehabilitation therapy aims to bridge the gap between mental and social activities to prepare veterans for civilian life. Rehabilitation helps veterans reintegrate into civilian life after serving in the military. In the same way, veterans undergoing mental health rehabilitation learn how to adjust to their new environments and live in their communities.

Sort Money Problems

Stress, tension, and anxiety are deeply connected to economic hardship. A Veteran can become financially stable by finding assistance and utilizing the programs available to them through the army resource center. Many organizations can assist veterans in analyzing their finances effectively and determining the best course of action. The benefits of undertaking a financial literacy program can extend to veterans and their families and consequently improve the quality of their life. If you are clear about your financial situation and have a plan for dealing with it, you can achieve your goals and have a better outcome.

Work Your Mind and Body

Getting in shape doesn’t always mean running and lifting weights. Yoga and Tai Chi can also improve your body’s physical and mental health. Yoga strengthens your body and mind. People respond better to stress when they remain calm and relaxed.

Yoga poses and breathing techniques help Veterans reduce anxiety and depression through physical postures and breathing techniques. Tai Chi is another exercise that uses deep breathing techniques and slow, purposeful lifestyle movements. Unlike other forms of exercise, Tai Chi is low impact and minimizes muscle and joint strain.

Get Enough Sleep

Most people understand that we need at least seven hours of sleep each night because sleeping well prepares you for a productive, energized day. However, people may benefit from sleeping more if they develop the habit of sleeping early and maintaining a fixed sleep schedule. In addition, it is essential to take steps to ensure the lifestyle quality of your sleep. Reduce the things that disturb your sleep, and remember that sleep deprivation can aggravate significant medical conditions and affect your attitude, concentration, and activity level. According to an analysis, sleeping less than six hours each night increases your risk of heart attacks and strokes. Another study found that those who sleep less than six hours a night are 12 percent more likely to die in 25 years.

The Way Forward!

Leaving military life can be challenging because you are trained to fit a specific role, but when you transition to civil life, it can be disorienting. It could be even more difficult if military service exposed you to traumatic experiences. Your physical and mental wounds can deepen after military service, so it’s essential to seek medical help as soon as possible. Getting routine checkups from a primary healthcare provider may also help you rebuild your lifestyle. Get back into shape and fix your diet to regain stamina. Remember to stay healthy lifestyle and strong.