I’ve Got More Meaning Now Than I Did When I Was In The Army. Here’s How

This is no. 17 in the contest about how one might find meaning after leaving military service.

Duance France writes: “As I was returning from Iraq, a chance encounter with another mental health professional told a group of us, ‘If you’re interested in psychology, become a therapist; there aren’t enough combat veterans in the career field.’

I retired in August of 2014; in June of 2015, I completed my Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Since January of 2014, as part of my degree program and now as a licensed clinician, I have been helping other veterans heal from the invisible wounds of war.

In addition to my clinical work, I also write and speak about veteran mental health through books, blogs, a podcast, and voice-first technology. Arguably, this new mission provides me with as much, if not more, purpose and meaning than I had during my 22 years in the Army.”