Bill tried going to college after deployment but was unable to focus on school and always felt on edge. Seeking the kind of excitement he experienced in combat, he left college and tried a variety of dangerous professions in an attempt to recapture the thrill.
View Video TranscriptBill:
I carried weapons all the time. And after I decided that academia was not going to be for me because I couldn't focus and study, I became a police officer at the Columbus Police Department. And for a while we rode black and white and then after a couple years, I became an undercover narcotics detective. Which was good for me because I carried as many guns as I could then. I mean I had guns everywhere.
In fact, I tell this story but it’s not an embellishment, I had a weapon inside my refrigerator just in case somebody broke in and I would be able to get lucky. So, I was really out to lunch. I was waiting for that next adrenaline rush. I thought it was going to help me with my living vicariously. But actually, a policeman’s job was fairly mundane and to me boring. So, I started my own executive protection company and moved to Los Angeles.
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There are ways to prevent yourself from engaging in risky behavior. Plan to avoid situations that might lead to recklessness. For example, leave early or late to avoid rush-hour traffic, or arrange a ride home if you'll be drinking. Talking with your family members, close friends, or a health care provider may help you find support and resources to address your challenges. Learn more steps you can take on our Reckless Behavior page.
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