When leaving the service isn’t a choice
For Veterans who have had to leave the service because of a medical condition or Occupational Stress Injury, the transition to civilian life can be more difficult.
I think just the accumulation of having to recall all of the trauma… the internal trauma from working in the RCMP with the stress of the pandemic... my PTSD symptoms became quite severe again and I recognized that I needed to discharge from the RCMP. - RCMP Veteran
What the Veteran may experience
An unchosen discharge can add layers of complexity. It may come with adapting to physical or mental health challenges and losses, which can also impact future options.
What spouse/family may experience
What you are feeling will depend on the nature of the discharge and the circumstances in which you and your family find yourselves. You may be reeling from a sudden and forced decision and the losses to future plans, financial well-being, housing, community, and supports.
You may be feeling relief if this means the Veteran will be out of harm’s way. The discharge may feel like the first step to addressing their mental health/trauma struggles. You may see this as getting the Veteran and your family “back”.
For more information, see Transition out of service.