Veterans play an important role in protecting society. However, their work is associated with many risks. They mostly work in harsh environments. Some of these risks can result in them being jobless or incapacitated to the extent that they cannot work again in the future. It is up to every veteran to protect themselves as much as possible while in the line of duty. Such would prevent them from incurring injuries that might hinder their future capabilities in the job market.
Physical injuries
The main challenge faced by veterans is physical injuries. Given the nature of their work environment, such injuries become unavoidable. For instance, if the veterans are deployed in a war zone, there are high chances that some of them will get injured or die. If the veteran has sustained major injuries, it might be challenging for them to work again for the rest of their lives.
Another common health condition they may face is the development of mesothelioma. This is a type of cancer that is caused by the inhalation of asbestos. Asbestos is a mineral used in manufacturing fireproof and insulation materials. Veterans have a high chance of using materials that have been made from asbestos. The continued use of the materials exposes them to the risk of developing mesothelioma. Cancer affects the lining of the lungs, stomach, or heart. Mesothelioma is a deadly type of cancer, and its survival rate is up to years. Cancer has no cure, and medical practitioners can only manage the symptoms,
The worst part about mesothelioma is that its symptoms can take up to 30 years to develop. Most people tend to confuse the symptoms with those of other illnesses. In turn, they fail to get screened on time, only for them to be diagnosed with cancer when it has already advanced to its final stages. At this stage, it is challenging for the patient to recover. According to Mesothelioma Veterans Center, veterans who served in the 1980s should get screened for mesothelioma because they were exposed to a lot of pf asbestos n their line of duty.
Poor mental health
The other challenge faced by veterans is poor mental health. These veterans work in harsh conditions where they witness occurrences that can disturb their peace for the rest of their lives. The veterans are encouraged to seek counseling to prevent such experiences from ruining their mental health. Some veterans find it challenging to reunite with their families due to the poor mental health.
Unemployment
Once a veteran has retired, they might still be interested in working. When veterans get injured, they might decide to get other jobs after returning home. Unfortunately, they find it challenging to get a new job because they are considered incapacitated and unable to offer quality services. The veterans spend most of the time working in different parts of the world. Therefore, they do not have time to learn the short courses required in the job market. Their knowledge is considered outdated, and therefore, most employers are not willing to hire them.