We have shared time and again in several of our previous posts how unique an experience military service is as opposed to leading civilian lives, and how it has been documented that at times, service members have difficulty adjusting to life after military service.

VAntage Point, the blog of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), shared information regarding an initiative that it started earlier this year, in support of Veterans making that transition to civilian life.

The spirit of teamwork is very much a part of military life, and service members build a unique support system for themselves while they are in the service. It is this support system that is lost once their military service comes to an end, during which time there will be a shift to friends and family. This can be a little tricky, though, as their family and friends may not fully understand what they are going through, and may not know how to reach out to their Veteran loved ones.

The program is called Coaching into Care. It is a telephone service which aims to provide support to Veterans who may be encountering issues in terms of readjustment and mental health, by providing support to their family members and loved ones.

VA Secretary Eric K. Shinseki shared: “Family members and friends may not know what to say to encourage their Veterans to seek much needed readjustment and health care. The Coaching into Care line will help them find the right words.”

Those who would like to avail of Coaching into Care may call the following hotline: 1-888-823-7458, or send an e-mail to CoachingIntoCare@va.gov.