A civilian is a person who is not a member of a military organization. The term is often used in the context of a legal status or as part of an official designation, such as a citizen, but the word may also be applied to people who have a certain lifestyle or are a part of a specific culture, such as a civil rights activist or a historian who studies civil law. Civilians can be men and women, young and old, from all walks of life. Some civilians are employed in the public sector while others have a professional designation, such as doctor or lawyer.
For many veterans, moving from the military to the civilian world can be a big change. There are many resources to help with this transition, including those that offer assistance with finances, finding jobs, and continuing education. The differences between the two worlds can seem intimidating at first, but with some preparation and support, civilian life can be as rewarding as the military experience.
Some people who are considered civilians are police officers, firefighters, and members of the emergency medical services. Those who are employed in these fields must comply with civil and criminal laws just like any other member of the general public. The term civilian can also be applied to people who have a particular political affiliation or belong to a specific religion, for example, a Muslim or Jewish person. Civilians can be employed in the public or private sectors, and their actions are subject to civil and criminal laws.
Civilians who are not in the military are protected by international humanitarian law during times of war. The law states that a country should not target civilians in its own territory or with military attacks, and there are numerous considerations for those who are living in besieged or encircled areas, such as the need to evacuate wounded, sick, or infirm civilians from surrounded areas.
One of the biggest struggles with being a civilian can be adapting to a new lifestyle and establishing new connections. Civilians are often shuffled from one community to another, which can make it hard to find new friends. The good news is, it is possible to build a new circle of support through veteran resources and social media groups.
One of the most important aspects of being a civilian is understanding how to care for yourself. There are many different things that civilians can do to maintain a healthy lifestyle, from staying fit to getting proper nutrition and enough sleep. It is also important to set aside time for self-care, and what that looks like for each individual can vary. For some, it might mean spending a few hours at the local library or having a spa day. For others, it might mean spending some quality time with loved ones. Civilians should always be mindful of the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA), which outlines the rules for qualifying for benefits.