Experience of Transition From the Military for Post-9/11 Combat Veterans

Suicide rates for post-9/11 veterans are alarmingly high, especially within the first 3 years of transition from the military. High stress during transition is linked to occupational dysfunction and suicidal ideation. Combat veterans report more difficult transitions than non-combat veterans but have received little attention. This study aimed to understand the transition experience from the military for post-9/11 combat veterans. A phenomenological method was used to describe the lived experience of transition from the military for post-9/11 combat veterans. Data collection included interviews and coding of transcriptions until data saturation was met at nine participants and themes were developed. Main themes included Having Expectations, Confronting Barriers, Identity Crisis, Employing Coping Mechanisms, and Filling a Void. This study highlights the challenges faced by post-9/11 combat veterans transitioning from the military, emphasizing the role of occupational identity and the importance of engagement in meaningful occupations during this transition.