Why to not join the military?

Why Not to Join the Military?

The military has been an esteemed institution in many societies around the world, often symbolizing bravery, honor, and patriotism. For those considering a career in the military, the notion of serving one’s country is often a significant factor in their decision. However, before making such a major commitment, it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons of military life and consider the potential long-term consequences. In this article, we’ll delve into the reasons why it’s essential to think carefully about joining the military and some of the often-overlooked drawbacks of this type of career path.

Reason #1: The Risks Involved

Combat Risks: Military personnel are placed in harm’s way to ensure national security and protection from external threats. Combat duties come with the very real risk of injury or loss of life, affecting both the individual and their loved ones.

• According to the National Coalition of Homeless Veterans, in 2019, the unemployment rate for homeless veterans stood at 18%.
• The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) estimates that over 500,000 veterans are currently experiencing homelessness.

Accident and Injury Risks: Training exercises, transportations, and other aspects of military life can result in non-combat-related accidents, injuries, and illnesses, which can lead to disabilities and long-term medical challenges.

• In 2020, the United States Department of Defense (DOD) reported that service members experienced approximately 104,000 hospitalizations for non-combat injuries or illnesses.

Reason #2: PTSD and Mental Health Concerns

Military personnel are at high risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns due to the stress of combat, repeated exposure to traumatic events, and potential loss of comrades.

• The VA reports that about 11% of returning veterans from Operations Enduring Freedom (OEF), Iraqi Freedom (OIF), and New Dawn (OND) are currently dealing with PTSD or other mental health conditions.

Complications and Impact: The effects of PTSD can persist long after the service member has left the military, affecting their relationships, daily life, and career goals.

• The US Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has shown that veterans with PTSD are more likely to develop co-occurring medical and mental health conditions.

Reason #3: Limited Job Prospects and Career Development

While having military experience can be valuable on a resume, some job sectors may view service-connected disabilities or injuries as liability concerns. This can hinder career advancement and opportunities in certain fields.

Inadequate Civilian Jobs: Many veterans find themselves underemployed or facing skills mismatch due to a lack of transferable job skills or the difficulty of civilian employers understanding military occupational experiences.

• The BLS reports that as of May 2020, employment rates for veterans vary depending on the demographic; white veterans had a lower employment rate (78.7%) compared to those identifying as Black (75.4%) or Asian (68.5%).

Reason #4: Limited Education and Benefits Support

Financial support for education is not always readily available for all military personnel, limiting the opportunities for advancement, promotion, or professional certifications.

Limited Tuition Coverage: The Montgomery GI Bill (MGIB) program, which provides educational assistance to eligible veterans, often covers a limited number of course credits or certifications, requiring additional funding to cover costs.

• In 2019, the Federal Commission on Education announced that many veterans were still unaware of the MGIB benefits and application processes, leading to misunderstandings and financial burden.

Reason #5: Time Spent Away from Family and Personal Life

Military service can disrupt relationships and personal lives due to frequent deployments, relocation, and long work hours. This can result in lasting emotional and social effects for both the service member and their loved ones.

• A 2020 RAND Corporation study found that veteran families often struggle to readjust to life together due to the lack of cohesive support systems for their reintroduction.

Reason #6: Social and Cultural Differences

Mili-Culture and Hierarchies: The unique organizational structure and rigid chains of command within the military can sometimes lead to misunderstandings or conflicts between personnel.

• A 2018 review of military mental health records revealed that some personnel had difficulty adjusting to civilian culture upon discharge, resulting in prolonged readjustment processes.

Buddy Groups and Camaraderie: The strong sense of esprit de corps in military units can sometimes hinder outsiders from forming lasting bonds and connections.

• Researchers from the University of Nebraska, in a 2020 study, reported that only 10% of their sample group (post-9/11 veterans) had formed strong bonds outside of their military peer groups.

Reason #7: Loyalty and Commitment Obligations

Service-Oath Duties: Joining the military often involves signing up for a long-term commitment, which can bind you to the service for up to 20 years (depending on the service contract).

• Service members typically have limited transfer opportunities (e.g., officer personnel) and can experience administrative hurdles when requesting changes.

Family Life Changes: Military life often necessitates frequent moves, extended leaves, and separation from families, which can affect marriages, relationships, and future planning.

• Research indicates that military family moves affect children’s educational progress and social development.

Reason #8: Compulsory Training and Health Care

Health Checkups and Vaccinations: Mandatory periodic health checkups, which can be physically or psychologically demanding, can affect self-esteem and well-being.

• A 2020 study published in the American Journal of Health Education recognized the importance of prioritizing mental health among service members.

Health Consequences: Exposure to certain diseases, injuries, and psychological trauma can have lasting medical consequences, such as spinal cord injuries, mental health disorders, and disabilities.

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has acknowledged that increased awareness and reporting of burn pit exposure have linked such exposure to chronic illnesses in veterans.

In conclusion, while serving in the military can be a challenging and rewarding experience for those drawn to it, it is essential to weigh the costs and benefits of joining this type of career path carefully. The military comes with inherent risks, psychological effects, and life changes that can have a profound impact on an individual’s quality of life. For those considering a military career, it is crucial to make an informed decision after consulting with a mental health professional, researching potential health outcomes, and exploring the social and cultural aspects involved in military life.