Canadian military members’ experiences of using programs and services to support upcoming release: A qualitative study

LAY SUMMARY Transitioning from military to civilian life starts with the decision to leave military service, leading to a unique journey for each person. This study looks at how Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members use various support programs during this transition. These programs are provided by the CAF, Department of National Defence (DND), Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC), and other civilian organizations. The research is part of a larger study and uses interviews to understand the experiences of CAF members. Data were collected May 2018-January 2019 from 80 participants, including both full-time and part-time service members. The initial findings show that many participants found VAC and DND/CAF programs helpful. However, they also faced challenges, such as dealing with complicated administrative tasks and encountering civilian providers who lacked an understanding of military culture. These insights are important for improving the support available to military members as they transition to civilian life.