Adjusting to post-military life tends to be difficult for many veterans. You are leaving not just a way of life, but an experience. Upon leaving the military veterans tend to focus on things like finding a job, reconnecting to their family and community, and helping others &mdash; but one thing that often gets left to the wayside is physical and mental health. Choosing a post-deployment job is already a massive decision, so much so that diet, exercise, and self-care can be forgotten about. Keeping these items top of mind can truly make a difference and help veteran employees feel secure not only in the workplace but in their health as well. 
<h2>Spend Time Focusing on Physical Health</h2>
There is a good portion of veterans state that they have good physical health post-service, usually due to the fitness levels they had while in the military. However, a <a href="https://www.research.va.gov/currents/0120-Health-ranks-as-top-concern-for-Veterans.cfm" rel="noopener" target="_blank">study done by the VA</a> showed that after leaving the military more than half of participating veterans stated that they had chronic physical health problems. This could be chronic pain if they received an injury in service, sleep problems, or mental health issues.
&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/brfss/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">The BRFSS</a>, or the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System for the CDC, collects data from all 50 states and takes notes on health risk behaviors, health conditions, and much more. In this data, veterans are called out as well, showcasing where issues for veterans may lie post-military service. The data showcases that veterans are less likely to rate their overall health as good compared to those who weren&rsquo;t in service. 
&nbsp;
On top of self-reflection, veterans often suffer from common injuries that range from sprains and strains to more serious injuries like gunshot wounds, loss of limbs, or hearing loss related to noise exposure. Also, high blood pressure is another health concern commonly associated with veterans. While it may not seem detrimental, almost half of veterans are diagnosed with high blood pressure, which increases the chance of heart disease. Proactively setting aside time for a few walks a day can help alleviate some of this pain as well as help your heart, making your <a href="https://www.prevention.va.gov/Healthy_Living/Be_Physically_Active.asp" rel="noopener" target="_blank">physical health a priority</a> without adding too much to your plate. 
<h2>Ask Potential Employers about Health Benefits</h2>
Even though you may have access to the VA, you must be aware of the health benefits your employer may have in place too. Your employer should provide resources for you to have easy access to if you have health conditions related to your time in service.
&nbsp;
While most employers may focus on being <a href="https://www.eeoc.gov/employers" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Equal Employment Opportunity</a> based as well as follow the <a href="https://www.eeoc.gov/laws/guidance/understanding-your-employment-rights-under-americans-disabilities-act-guide-veterans" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Americans with Disabilities Act</a>, it&rsquo;s important to pay attention to what your employer offers once hired. They should offer accessibility in the workplace, and usually, the VA can help set up these accommodations with your employer if the lifestyle changes seem like drastic ones. 
&nbsp;
On top of these benefits through the VA, your employer should have healthcare options as well as dental, vision, and 401(k) plans that you can be a part of. While it is up to the discretion of the employer to have these plans, larger companies like grocery stores, retail businesses, and national brands, usually have <a href="https://www.paychex.com/articles/employee-benefits/5-things-about-offering-benefits-for-part-time-employees" rel="noopener" target="_blank">benefits for their full-time and part-time employees</a>. If you are a veteran that is choosing this route rather than something full-time, it&rsquo;s wise to ask if these are available! This is especially true if working in a field that comes with hazardous conditions, such as construction, being a first responder, or labor-intensive work. If not, make sure that the VA can provide benefits, or that they can work with your employer for a plan that works for you and your family. 
<h2>Stay on Top of Current Legislation, If You Can</h2>
Believe it or not, some of the best ways to be aware of your benefits after deployment is to take note of changes that are going on in the veteran community. Recently, the Honoring our PACT Act was signed into effect, which is the <a href="https://www.mesothelioma.com/blog/bill-may-allow-camp-lejeune-water-contamination-victims-file-lawsuit/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">biggest expansion for the VA</a> in 30 years or so. This bill opens up medical and financial coverage to veterans impacted by toxic substances in the military that were commonly found in burn pits, <a href="https://www.mesothelioma.com/states/north-carolina/camp-lejeune/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">at military bases</a>, and used across combat., New legislation, such as the PACT Act can be a lifeline for veterans post-service. 
&nbsp;
Far too often, veterans neglect their health due to the rising costs of healthcare. Luckily, <a href="https://www.aarp.org/home-family/voices/veterans/info-2022/pact-act.html" rel="noopener" target="_blank">The PACT Act</a> covers something called the &ldquo;Cost of Toxic Exposures Fund,&rdquo; which helps pay for the health care and benefits related to being exposed to hazards while in service. Not only does this help cover veterans' health care costs, but also helps families as well if they were exposed in housing units or through secondhand exposure to these chemicals. 
&nbsp;
While it may be hard to stay in the know about all things related to healthcare for veterans, working with your local VA can help you find the support and resources you need to stay healthy. The PACT Act also outlines that the VA will be more proactive in making those materials available. 
&nbsp;
As you start to make your way into the workforce after your time in the military, you must focus on your health, both physically and mentally. It can be hard to make time for yourself; the good thing is there are plenty of resources to make sure that you do.

Transitioning from military to civilian life? Keep your health in check with these essential tips.

Managing Your Health After Deployment in the Workplace | Getting Hired

Managing Your Health After Deployment in the Workplace

Workplace stress is a growing problem that can take a toll on mental health, leading to problems such as anxiety, depression, and burnout among employees. These conditions can significantly impact work performance, leading to decreased productivity and job loss.
For many people trapped in this vicious cycle, work stress leads to poor mental health, which contributes to poor performance at work, causing more work stress, and so on. It's this cycle that makes it critical for employers to provide support for mental health in the workplace. By creating a healthy work environment where employees feel valued, appreciated, and supported in their mental health, employers can help reduce workplace stress and improve the team's overall well-being.
Keep reading to learn more about the relationship between work and mental health and several ways you can support your employees' mental health as an employer. 
<h2>How the Workplace Can Impact Mental Health</h2>
 Workplace stress has increased significantly in the past three decades. <a href="https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress/2020/report-october" rel="noopener" target="_blank">A recent study</a> by the American Psychological Association found that over half of all workers report that their job is very or extremely stressful. When workers are stressed, it impacts their ability to work efficiently and effectively, leading to poor job performance, absenteeism or presenteeism (when employees come to work but don't perform well), increased sick leave, and even loss of talent.
 Stress negatively impacts mental health, but <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5137920/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">chronic stress</a> has also been linked to physical health issues, increasing the risk of conditions such as:
<ul>
<li> Heart disease</li>
<li> Obesity</li>
<li> Diabetes</li>
</ul>
<h2> What Causes Workplace Stress?</h2>
 So, what causes stress in the workplace? It can be a combination of several things.
For some employees, it's a lack of resources and overwhelming responsibility. For others, it's a lack of work culture or flexibility in the role. Toxic work environments that limit internal growth or don't compensate their workers properly can also lead to the downfall of workplace mental health for many. <a href="https://gettinghired.com/candidate/registration" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/llEFXjcvQ2ed4Amvyw5D"></a> 
<h2>How Mental Health Issues Can Impact the Workplace</h2>
 Mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, can significantly impact workplace productivity. Depression and anxiety alone cost employers an estimated 12 billion working days per year, adding up to nearly<a href="https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health-at-work" rel="noopener" target="_blank"> $1 trillion in lost productivity</a> annually.
&nbsp;
Mental health issues can also lead to:
<ul>
<li> Decreased morale</li>
<li> Increased absenteeism</li>
<li> Extended periods of leave</li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
Employers may also face costly legal action if they do not take reasonable steps to protect their employees from discrimination based on mental illness.
When your workers don't feel fulfilled, cared for, and supported by their employer and workplace, you'll feel that missing piece far beyond the individual employees. It begins to seep into the quality of work and eat into productive hours. 
<h2>Why Mental Health Support Is So Important in the Workplace</h2>
 Providing support for mental health in the workplace is essential for employers to ensure their workers are healthy, engaged, and productive.
Not only does mental health support help employees combat stress, but it also promotes a positive work culture that leads to increased job satisfaction and improved retention rates. It keeps workers feeling connected, valued, and appreciated instead of isolated from their peers or inadequate in their roles.
Employers should strive to create a psychologically safe space for their employees where everyone feels heard, respected, and free to express themselves. Ultimately, this freedom helps create an environment conducive to collaboration and productivity.
When you support mental health in the workplace, employers experience greater financial success and less turnover due to improved job satisfaction among employees. 
<h2>Ways To Support Mental Health in the Workplace</h2>
 Looking for ideas for ways to support your employees' mental health at work? Here are a few actionable tips: 
<h4> Robust Employee Assistance Program</h4>
Ensure your employees have access to the tools and support they need when it comes to managing their mental health by providing online or in-person counseling services, educational resources, and stress management programs.
The goal of employee assistance programs (EAP) is to support employees with issues that may be negatively impacting their well-being or job performance. It should cover a broad range of issues with various solutions, such as <a href="https://www.roarforgood.com/wireless-bluetooth-features" rel="noopener" target="_blank">wireless panic buttons</a> to alleviate stress about workplace violence or emergencies, legal support, counseling for work or relationship problems, and more. 
<h4> Wellness Spaces</h4>
Creating designated areas for employees to relax and destress throughout the day can help support their mental health. 
The space should be comfortable, with plenty of <a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/natural-light-benefits" rel="noopener" target="_blank">natural light</a>, seating, and a selection of activities such as puzzles or coloring books. It can also double as a space for team meetings or individual work sessions. Add plants and snacks for an extra boost. 
<h4> Regular Mental Health Check-Ins</h4>
Make mental health check-ins a priority by scheduling time for employees to talk one-on-one with their managers and voice any concerns or needs. You can schedule check-ins weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly, depending on the organization's size.
These conversations should be in a nonjudgmental and supportive environment that encourages open communication. Look at them as an opportunity for managers to actively listen and offer solutions or resources if needed.
Another great idea is to pair these check-ins with mental health days. Some companies are now offering free mental health days to their employees as needed, and adding a mental health check-in upon return to the office can help pinpoint issues to avoid in the future. 
<h4> Free or Subsidized Mental Health Treatment </h4>
Free or subsidized mental health treatment can take many forms, including the following:
<ul>
<li> Individual counseling sessions</li>
<li> Group therapy</li>
<li> <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/meditation/in-depth/meditation/art-20045858" rel="noopener" style="color: #34495e;" target="_blank">Meditation</a> or mindfulness classes</li>
</ul>
 By removing the financial barrier to seeking help, your employees are more likely to get the support they need. Making these services available to your employees will let them know that their mental health is valued and taken seriously. <a href="https://gettinghired.com/candidate/registration" rel="noopener" target="_blank"><img src="https://cdn.buttercms.com/9s3LstkGR9UDWr8aCaAE"></a> 
<h2>Final Thoughts: Making Mental Health Work Better for Work</h2>
 Mental health support should be considered a crucial part of any workplace if the organization truly wants to succeed.
By taking these steps, employers can help ensure that their employees are healthy and supported both physically and mentally, which, in turn, creates a positive work environment where everyone can succeed. 
<hr>
 Our inclusive employer partners are hiring and are looking for talent just like you! Align your skills, experience, and knowledge by registering <a href="https://www.careercircle.com/candidates/signup" rel="follow noopener" style="color: #34495e;" target="_blank" title="Register today">here</a>!

Explore the impact of workplace stress on mental health and strategies to improve employee well-being.

Mental Health in the Workplace: Why Support Is So Important | Getting Hired

Mental Health in the Workplace: Why Support Is So Important

Marketing oneself while job-seeking can be challenging for anyone. For BIPOC talent, who have been told time and again by the forces of racism and white supremacy that they are less deserving of opportunity, this can be doubly challenging. With <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-07-29/job-applicants-with-black-names-still-less-likely-to-get-the-interview" rel="noopener" target="_blank">studies showing</a> that BIPOC talent is less likely to get interview callbacks than their white counterparts, it&rsquo;s no wonder that going through the job-seeking process can be discouraging for BIPOC talent. While feeling dismayed is a valid feeling, there are ways BIPOC talent can leverage their skills and backgrounds to create stellar profiles for employers.&nbsp;
&nbsp;
<h4>With this in mind here are 4 tips for BIPOC talent to market themselves while job-seeking:&nbsp; </h4>
<ol>
<li>Create an elevator pitch. An elevator pitch is a short summary of your professional self, your goals, and your experience. This is a great and simple exercise to start feeling more comfortable talking about your strengths and skills. Need a place to start? <a href="https://techlatino.org/why-everyone-needs-an-elevator-pitch/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Tech Latino explains</a> how everyone needs an elevator pitch, even current workers! Copywriter Course has a great <a href="https://copywritingcourse.com/elevator-pitch/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Elevator Pitch template</a> and practical tips for how to pitch yourself.&nbsp;</li>
</ol>

<ol start="2">
<li> Share what motivates you. Employers appreciate fresh authenticity, especially when having to sift through hundreds of job applicants. Whether it's in your cover letter, job interview, or even your LinkedIn profile, sharing what motivates you in your industry is a great way to separate yourself from the crowd. Perhaps it&rsquo;s giving back to your community or building on a legacy of professionals within your family lineage. Whatever your &ldquo;why&rdquo; is, knowing the answer can be your guide as you make your way through the job-seeking process.&nbsp;</li>
</ol>

<ol start="3">
<li>Keep Imposter Syndrome in check. Imposter Syndrome can make you feel as if you don&rsquo;t belong in the professional world. According to <a href="https://www.intheknow.com/post/imposter-syndrome-young-black-employees/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">psychologist Dr. Orb&eacute;-Austin</a>, who coaches young Black professionals on how to overcome Imposter Syndrome, &ldquo;the triggers for Imposter Syndrome can be very different for the BIPOC community.&rdquo; Remind yourself that yes, you deserve opportunities and that yes, you have valuable skills that would make you an asset to an employer.</li>
</ol>

<ol start="4">
<li> Attend a networking event for professional minorities. Not only are networking events an excellent way to meet other BIPOC professionals, they&rsquo;re also an opportunity to practice your elevator pitch! Remember: You are not the only minority who has experienced the job-seeking journey. Connecting with others can help you feel less isolated, more grounded, and more validating. Many minority-based professional organizations host networking events, such as the <a href="https://members.naaap.org/join-naaap" rel="noopener" target="_blank">National Association of Asian American Professionals</a> and the <a href="https://www.ncaied.org/about-ncaied/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development</a>.&nbsp;</li>
</ol>
 It&rsquo;s no secret that being a BIPOC professional can be challenging&ndash; the job-seeking experience is no exception. However, with good self-esteem, marketing, and networking, BIPOC can make themselves stand out to employers. The bottom line? Don&rsquo;t undervalue yourself!&nbsp;
&nbsp; Are you currently looking for a role? Our employer partners are hiring!

4 tips for BIPOC talent to market themselves and stand out in the job-seeking process.

Effectively Marketing Yourself  as BIPOC Talent While Job-Seeking | Getting Hired

Effectively Marketing Yourself  as BIPOC Talent While Job-Seeking

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45 Articles

Managing Your Health After Deployment in the Workplace

Mental Health in the Workplace: Why Support Is So Important

Effectively Marketing Yourself as BIPOC Talent While Job-Seeking

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