The Las Vegas Veteran

Veterans transitioning from the military to civilian life can face multiple stressors that could lead to severe issues like homelessness, mental health problems, and substance abuse. Nevada is home to over 200,000 veterans, with nearly 0.5% homeless. Transition stress can be caused by career changes, a lack of community, and a lost sense of purpose from leaving their military career.

Edrico Contreras entered the Army in 2017 and has just started transitioning out of the military. He is optimistic about getting out because he has begun to plan for the change he will experience. However, he acknowledges that not all military members are this prepared. “I know a lot of people in the military who think they’re just going to get out and a job will fall into their lap. That’s just not the case,” Contreras said.

The military can give its members a sense of purpose with their work, helping them feel like they are a part of something bigger. Additionally, veterans bond with their teammates and connect over shared experiences. “In the military, there’s no better team,” said Contreras. “Getting out, I know it won’t be the same.”

A study showed that veterans’ mental health issues and substance abuse rose in the first six months of their transition out of the military. These issues were heightened by what is considered transition stress, which includes a loss of identity and a multitude of other causes. Contreras admitted that finding a community after leaving the service is vital to combating some of these issues. “Community is vital to mental health. Knowing that you are part of a group and knowing that you will all look out for each other is important,” he said.

Air Force Veteran Lester Lumbad is working to help veterans in the Las Vegas valley through his new organization, the Southern Nevada Veteran Chamber of Commerce (SNVCC). SNVCC provides resources, support, and community to veteran businesses in Las Vegas.

Lumbad shared that his transition out of the military did not pose too much stress as he had his exit to civilian life planned out in advance. However, he recognized that things aren’t always as straightforward for veterans. “Things lined up kinda well for me, but I know that doesn’t happen for a lot of people when they transition out,” Lumbad said.

SNVCC recently hosted its quarterly business mixer at a local venue, Area 15. The successful event had 135 attendees and allowed veterans and local supporters to mingle and network. Lumbad shared that his organization hosts multiple monthly events, from workshops and fundraisers to coffee meetups. Lumbad is also passionate about starting a new podcast that will revolve around the subject of veteran transition to civilian life.

Veteran communities like SNVCC are vital to veterans after they leave the military. Creating a space where veterans can meet with like-minded people can be helpful for their transition. Veteran-centered organizations can also help military members translate their military career and accomplishments into resumes and information that can help them in the civilian sector.

“Veterans don’t gate-keep things. If they have something that helped them out, they will share that with another veteran,” said Contreras during a veteran social event. Contreras was excited to get out into the community and find new friends and connections in the city. He believes networking will aid his transition out of active duty. “There are a lot of opportunities here; you just have to take that first initial step and make yourself comfortable,” he said.

You can find more information on SNVCC, its mission, and how to attend upcoming events through its website. You can also follow the organization on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.