By OBBM Network Editorial Staff

Samantha Horwitz and Dave Salerno

Imagine waking up one morning to find that the sense of purpose and identity you’ve built over years of service is suddenly gone. For many veterans and first responders, this is a harsh reality. The transition from a life of service to civilian life can be a daunting experience, leaving individuals feeling lost and without direction. David Preston, a licensed clinical social worker, has seen this struggle firsthand and has dedicated his career to helping these individuals navigate this challenging transition.

The Challenge of Transition

Preston’s own experience as a platoon leader in Desert Storm and his subsequent struggle to adjust to civilian life inspired him to pursue a career in therapy. He now works with veterans and first responders, helping them to cope with the unique challenges they face. According to Preston, one of the primary difficulties is the loss of a sense of mission. ‘When you leave the military, you have your mission removed,’ he explains. ‘You’re used to having a mission every day, knowing what uniform to put on, where you’re going, and what the overall mission is going to be.’ This sudden loss of purpose can be devastating, leading to feelings of isolation and disorientation.

Another significant challenge is what Preston calls the ‘teamectomy.’ ‘You’ve been operating as a part of a team, even when your particular job might be to operate solo,’ he says. ‘And we have both of those things removed. It can be devastating.’ The loss of camaraderie and the sense of belonging that comes with being part of a team can be particularly difficult to adjust to.

Finding a New Mission

So, how can veterans and first responders find a new sense of purpose and identity in civilian life? Preston emphasizes the importance of building a new team and finding a new mission. ‘It’s not the same kind of mission, but it’s still a mission that you can have in the civilian world,’ he says. This might involve pursuing a new career, volunteering, or engaging in activities that bring a sense of fulfillment and purpose. By finding a new mission and building a support network, individuals can begin to rebuild their sense of identity and purpose.

The Importance of Support

Preston also stresses the importance of support from family and friends. ‘The family is serving or has served,’ he says. ‘They’re going through this with you.’ By acknowledging the role that family members play in the transition process, individuals can work together to build a stronger support network. This might involve having open and honest conversations about the challenges they’re facing and working together to find solutions.

As Preston notes, ‘We don’t have to be civilians again. We are veterans.’ By embracing this identity and finding new ways to serve and contribute, veterans and first responders can build a fulfilling and purposeful life in civilian society.

The full episode of A Badge of Honor TV is available on OBBM Network TV.