8 Health and Wellness Tips for Veterans

As a veteran, you’ve already done so much for your country; now it’s time to take care of yourself. It is important to prioritize health and wellness to live a quality life. However, with long wait times at VA facilities and multiple medical appointments, prioritizing health can become more difficult than imagined. Luckily there are several ways veterans can stay active and maintain their mental and physical health. 

In this blog post, we will explore some beneficial health and wellness tips for veterans looking to adopt healthier habits and improve their overall well-being. Read on for some valuable advice on how you can take control of your own health and wellness.

Get Tested:

Spending time in the military means being exposed to conditions that can have a serious impact on your quality of life. Some symptoms show themselves early, but others don’t. This is why getting tested is your safest option.

Some conditions that you must get tested for include:

• Leukemia
• Infertility
• Esophageal cancer
• Lung cancer

If your tests come out positive for the above health concerns, chances are you have been exposed to harmful substances like asbestos or water-borne chemicals. 

If you or a loved one were stationed at the Camp Lejeune Marine Corps base camp between 1953 and 1987, you might have been exposed to the contaminated water there. The good thing is that veterans can now file Camp Lejeune water contamination claims that could provide financial assistance to help manage their condition.

Address Injuries and Mental Health:

It is normal for veterans to experience injuries during and after service. It is crucial to treat these injuries as soon as possible. It is recommended to get regular check-ups or physical therapy.

Dealing with conditions like PTSD can also be challenging, so veterans should consider getting counseling or therapy to help address them. Various support systems are available, such as group therapy or online communities, to help veterans cope with their injuries.

Exercise Regularly:

Exercise is essential for both physical and mental health. Even 30 minutes of light exercise five days a week can be beneficial. Many veterans and duty personnel enjoy exercise. It boosts your energy and lowers stress levels.

Yoga is also an example of relaxing your body and practicing breathing. 

Similarly, swimming is an excellent form of cardio that reduces pressure on the knees’ joints and ligaments.

Here are some more exercises and activities that you can incorporate into your daily routine:

• Walking
• Bicycling
• Boxing
• Stretching

Treat Yourself:

Taking care of yourself doesn’t always mean following the perfect regimen for your physical or mental well-being. It means knowing when to reward yourself. Watching Netflix, listening to music, baking a dessert, or heading out for a shopping spree are all good picks. 

Consider taking some time out for yourself and getting a massage. It will help your body relax, and you’ll feel a lot better. If possible, consider taking a day off from work. This can provide you with time to rest and clear your mind.

Connect with Others:

Having social connections is essential for our well-being as humans, as we are naturally social beings. This is particularly important for veterans who may have spent extended periods away from loved ones and friends.

So, look for healthy relationships. This could be with your neighbor, a partner at the gym, or even your grandkids. 

Becoming more active on social media can help too. Join groups of your interest, watch what others are doing, and make a plan for yourself.

You can enjoy group activities too. Join organizations or clubs that are related to your interests. Joining a veterans’ organization is another way to connect with other service members who have served in the same branch of the military and build a supportive community.

Get Enough Sleep:

Sleep puts your body in repair mode. You heal, you recharge, and you destress. So it’s important to get enough shuteye during the day. Anywhere between seven and nine hours is considered sufficient. But even if you’re sleeping soundly for six hours (undisturbed), it’ll do.

If you’re having trouble maintaining a sleep routine, add some stretching and relaxation techniques to your schedule. Take a calming bath, light up some candles, and take deep breaths. Also, please put that phone away!

Eat a Healthy Diet:

Maintaining a healthy diet is important for veterans. The food you eat will impact your overall physical and mental health.

Nutrient-dense food is essential. This includes vegetables, fruits, healthy fats, and lean proteins. It is vital to limit your intake of alcohol or sugary drinks because it can lead to diabetes, cancer, or heart disease. Moreover, drinking enough water is essential, as it helps to keep you hydrated and energized.

If you think you need help making healthier dietary choices, there are many nutrition programs available online.

Spend Time Outdoors:

Studies claim that nature has a positive effect on our minds. It helps us destress, bringing us closer to nature. So, whenever you feel suffocated, hit the trails. Spot a park nearby and go for a walk. You can also grab a bench and enjoy some birdwatching.

Camping is another fun option. 

These activities will be more fun if you do it in a group with other veterans. It will also be an opportunity to share stories and connections.

However, remember to take proper precautions whenever you are planning these activities. Wear appropriate clothing and keep the necessary things with you.

Conclusion:

All veterans deserve optimum care when it comes to their health and wellness. And we assure you, these health and wellness tips for Veterans will lead you to a healthier life.

Most of these tips are easy to add to your everyday life, such as drinking plenty of water and eating nutritious meals. Maintaining a regular exercise routine is also important. Remember that any type of physical activity is better than none. So, make time for yourself and live! You deserve it.