As a veteran, it can be difficult to know how to best take care of your health and well-being. Combat deployments and long hours away from home can make attending doctor’s appointments challenging or staying current with the latest medical research. And when you’re finally back in civilian life, making sure all of your healthcare needs are met may not always feel like a priority. But there are steps that veterans can take which promote self-care and provide practical means for managing physical, mental, and emotional health.
To support those who have served our country in uniform, here is a collection of nine ways to control your own wellbeing as a veteran.
1. Get regular medical check-ups and screenings
One of the most important things you can do to control your health is to get regular medical check-ups and screenings. Even if you feel fine, it’s important to have your health assessed by a medical professional regularly. This can help catch any potential health problems early before they become more serious.
For veterans, some specific tests and screenings are important to have. These may include a hearing test, a vision test, and tests for conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or traumatic brain injury (TBI). Discuss these tests with your healthcare provider and ensure you are getting the care you need.
2. Manage chronic conditions
For many veterans, managing chronic health conditions is an ongoing challenge. Common chronic conditions among veterans may include diabetes, high blood pressure, and arthritis. However, mesothelioma is also common among navy veterans, especially those who may have been exposed to asbestos while working on ships or in shipyards. It can cause chronic symptoms such as pain, difficulty breathing, and fatigue, significantly impacting a patient’s quality of life.
If diagnosed with mesothelioma navy veterans can seek medical treatment and legal assistance to help them manage their symptoms and pursue compensation for their asbestos exposure. Plus, working closely with your healthcare provider to manage your symptoms and minimize complications for any chronic condition is important.
To manage your condition, take medications as prescribed, make healthy lifestyle choices, and monitor your symptoms closely. You may also want to consider support groups or other resources that can help you manage your condition more effectively.
3. Manage mental health
Mental health is just as important as physical health; veterans may be especially susceptible to mental health challenges. Common mental health conditions among veterans include PTSD, depression, and anxiety. If you’re struggling with your mental health, seeking help is important.
There are a number of ways to manage mental health, including therapy, medication, and support groups. You may also want to consider relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga, which can be helpful in reducing stress and anxiety. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help when needed, and taking care of your mental health is an important part of taking control of your overall health.
4. Exercise regularly
Regular exercise is another important component of overall health and wellness. Exercise can help reduce the risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity and can also help improve mood and reduce stress. For veterans, exercise may also be a helpful way to stay active and engaged after your service is complete.
There are a number of different types of exercise that may be beneficial for veterans. Some veterans may enjoy running or other cardiovascular exercises, while others may prefer strength training or yoga. Whatever type of exercise you choose, aim for at least 30 minutes of activity most days of the week.
5. Make healthy food choices
A healthy diet is another key component of overall health and wellness. It can help reduce the risk of chronic conditions and can also help you maintain a healthy weight. For veterans, making healthy food choices is especially important to support overall health and well-being.
Some specific foods that may be especially beneficial for veterans include lean protein sources such as chicken, fish, beans, whole grains, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Aim for a balanced diet that includes various foods to ensure that you get all the nutrients your body needs.
6. Get enough sleep
Getting enough sleep is an essential component of overall health and wellness. Sleep helps restore the body and mind and can also help reduce stress and improve mood. Getting enough sleep is especially important for veterans who may be dealing with a range of health challenges.
Aim to establish a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends, to get better sleep. Consider relaxation techniques such as meditation or deep breathing exercises. Avoid caffeine and alcohol in the hours leading up to bedtime, and create a comfortable sleep environment with a supportive mattress and pillows.
7. Connect with other veterans
Connecting with other veterans can be an important part of taking control of your health. Many veterans struggle with physical and mental health challenges after their service is complete, and connecting with others who have had similar experiences may aid them in addressing these challenges.
There are a number of ways to connect with other veterans. You may want to consider joining a local veterans’ organization or participating in a peer support group. Online communities can also help connect with other veterans and share experiences.
8. Stay informed about healthcare benefits
As a veteran, you may be entitled to various healthcare benefits. These may include coverage for medical care, prescription medications, and other services. It’s important to stay informed about your healthcare benefits to ensure you get the care you need.
You can stay informed about your benefits by regularly reviewing your coverage and discussing any questions or concerns with your healthcare provider. Consider working with a Veterans Service Officer. They can guide you through the complicated world of veterans’ benefits and ensure you get the care you need.
9. Take care of oral health
Oral health is an important component of overall health and well-being. Poor oral health has been linked to various chronic conditions, including heart disease and diabetes. For veterans, taking care of oral health is especially important to support overall health.
To take care of your oral health, make sure to brush and floss regularly and visit your dentist for regular cleanings and check-ups. Avoid tobacco products, which can contribute to oral health problems, and eat a balanced diet rich in whole foods and nutrients.
Conclusion
Taking control of your health is essential to living your best life as a veteran. By getting regular medical check-ups and screenings, managing mental health, exercising regularly, making healthy food choices, getting enough sleep, managing chronic conditions, connecting with other veterans, staying informed about healthcare benefits, and taking care of oral health, you can support your overall health and well-being. Remember, taking care of yourself is an important part of honoring your service to your country, and you deserve the very best in health and wellness.
