Thomas Gouard
Transitioning from the military after 12 years of active service was one of the more difficult times in my life. It was one of my more sensitive times, yet grateful to receive any advice that assisted me with transitioning. Things that made my transition rough was going through harsh times in my relationship, having many doors shut on me during the process of looking for employment, which led to me having no hope in life whatsoever.
I feel as though relationships are supposed to be your escape from the rigors of the outside world, but when you are in a relationship where you are constantly fighting with each other, it affects you mentally. Even though I am no longer in that relationship, I still do not think my girlfriend at the time understood what I went through.
The stress of looking for a job came because here you have this military guy that has 12 years experience, yet has no degree to back it up. This led to many shut doors while applying for several positions that I have the skills for. I have got many thank you’s for my service, yet no welcoming hands offering me a chance to show my skills. I often felt as though my military experience meant nothing, but a thank you because it was all I got from employers.
I came to the conclusion that there ain’t no one that can help a military veteran, but a military veteran because we know what we have done in the military and the rigors that came with it.
While pursuing a career in mental health what fuels me the most is climbing that ladder and being able to help that military veteran that needs a helping hand in a world where many doors will be shut.
#ThomasGouard #UnitedStatesMarineCorps #Marines #Military #Nohope #Lost #Sad #USMC #Military #Veteran
I have heard that it is often very hard for ex-soldiers to transition to civilian life, get jobs, etc, but it sounds like you have a very positive attitude and make the best of everything. I often feel very lost in life, so your post struck a chord with me. Excellent piece of writing.
Thank you, Maggie. These struggles are what fuels me to keep moving forward. My dream job is to help active duty or military veterans get through hard times.
Life, this is how it goes now. I’m also with the military, but I have an office job, 10 years of service so far.
Keep it up, you are stronger than you think! ?
Oh trust me I know that because I got through it. And I would love to assist others easing through it. Luckily, I had the right people surrounding me at the time.
This really surprises me that you had so many closed doors. I am sure PTSD is a distant friend of yours. Sorry if I am correct. And, thank you for your service. Good luck with your future, but I don’t think you will need much luck. Keep your head up.
And thankfully I do not have PTSD, but have met many with it. Thank you for acknowledging me serving. Most do not catch it listed on my profile, especially on sites like Virily.