Securing Employment after Military Discharge for Depression: Navigating the Job Market
Many veterans who have served with honorable conditions may experience challenges in the job market, especially after discharge for conditions like depression. However, with the right preparation and strategy, securing a job can be attainable, whether in traditional roles or through contracting opportunities.
Understanding Military Discharge and Its Impact on Employment
Under normal circumstances, it's no one's business officially why you got discharged from the military. The character of service (honorable, other than honorable, bad conduct, dishonorable) may matter in some specific fields such as civil service, post office, police, and fire services, or for federal loan applications like FAFSA, Fannie Mae, and Freddie Mac. However, for most normal jobs, you can rest assured that they cannot inquire about your discharge status. Standard background checks may pick up on certain types of discharges (dishonorable and bad conduct), as these often indicate felony convictions.
Handling Job Applications and Interviews
The situation becomes more nuanced when you mention contracting roles. Security clearances can be a significant factor in securing these types of jobs. It's essential to be prepared to explain your situation openly and honestly, especially if you are applying for a role that may require additional security screening.
For those looking to apply for work, it's important to avoid the potential stigma associated with past discharges by highlighting your strengths and achievements. While you are not legally required to admit any medical condition to your employer, the medical condition you have (in this case, depression) could help you secure an interview. Applying for disability benefits from the military would be a wise move, as it would provide coverage to see someone about your depression. This can be done as soon as you are discharged. Local veteran centers can assist with this process.
Dealing with Unofficial Scrutiny
It's worth noting that unofficially, many hiring managers in the private sector may be veterans or familiar with career changes among veterans. They may be more likely to sniff out abnormal service statuses or flag discharges with probable medical conditions. However, these hiring managers cannot legally discriminate based on your discharge status but may subtly screen out candidates. Therefore, it's crucial to prepare a compelling narrative about how your mental health is improving.
When interviewing, you can discuss how mental health treatment has positively impacted your life and career goals. Emphasize your ability to manage and overcome challenges. Be positive and proactive about your recovery, which can serve as a testament to your resilience and adaptability.
Conclusion and Advice
The world is vast and full of opportunities, so don't let past challenges limit your future. Applying for work after military discharge is perfectly possible, and with the right approach, you can navigate the job market successfully. Remember to focus on your strengths, be honest, and use your experience as a learning opportunity to showcase your growth and resilience.
Each step in your career is a chance to tell your story again, and it's a great opportunity to demonstrate how you have overcome challenges and are ready to contribute to your new role. Good luck in your job search and remember, you are capable of thriving in any career you choose.