With government restrictions to manage COVID-19 easing in Australia, many of us are finding the transition back to "normal life" challenging.
We are adjusting our daily habits and routines, travelling more and finding new ways to enjoy our usual activities.
But what if, while transitioning back to previously familiar environments, you also needed to work through traumatic or morally distressing experiences, such as the death or injury of comrades?
This is the reality for many former service members.
Many have unique experiences that others might not understand - like forming close bonds with comrades, deploying on dangerous, confronting, or life-threatening missions, and returning home to discover that certain skills and qualifications are not recognised.
Hidden health conditions such as depression, chronic pain and PTSD are common and can make the transition difficult.
The federal government has formed the Joint Transition Authority, which aims to take a "whole of system approach" to supporting former service members after military service.
But, for former service people to feel really supported, individuals and communities need to step up.
Reflect on your own experiences after COVID-19 and understand how important it is to participate in meaningful activities, feel connected to others and spend time doing what we enjoy.
This type of engagement is also important for former service members.
We can help with engagement by donating to ex-service organisations, supporting veteran employment programs which recognise the unique experiences and skills of former service members, and by being welcoming when they join our workplace, community group or sporting team.
We can also provide opportunities for former service members to talk about their experiences, by asking questions like "Tell me about your service in the military?"
If you are a former service member, you can help by taking part in our La Trobe University study.
We want to find out what helped you in your transition back to everyday life - was it finding a job, completing a course, joining a sports team, learning a musical instrument, or something else?
Your participation in the study will help other former service members. For more information, email k.carra@latrobe.edu.au
Let's acknowledge the incredible sacrifices that former service members have made by supporting their wellbeing.
Because the transition back to "normal life" can be challenging.
Kylie Carra is a PhD student at La Trobe University.
