Dealing with chronic pain limited what Shaunne could do. Once an active Army soldier, her physical limitations made her feel like "half of a person." Even with a child to care for, she often wanted to stay in bed and block out the pain and world. Going to VA helped her learn to accept herself and find ways to live a fulfilling life.
View Video TranscriptShaunne:
I think because I had the issues with the multiple joint issues and that was causing constant pain, it led to depression, and that's when I was going to mental health was the depression. You really feel like you just, the only word I can think of is worthless. It's just you can't do anything right. Nothing in your life is working right. Everybody keeps saying, "oh, just snap out of it." But, it's not just snap out of it because you don't see that light at the end of the tunnel. It seems like this is where you are. This is where you're stuck forever.
I was trying to continue to move on of course because I had my son. I was a single parent, but many days I just wished I could just stay in bed for the entire day and just block out the rest of the world.
Believe it or not, it was a long time before I actually went to the VA, but then after I started going I realized okay, that's why things were happening as they were. That's why I felt the way I did about things. It made it a lot easier because then once I could recognize what was making me feel that way then I can like talk myself down off the ledge to where when I start having those feelings I can reach back into reality and say, "okay, no, this is what's really going on."
So, it's made life easier. I guess the biggest part of it was trying to find out the cause. Boiling it down to, I hadn't been in war, they run through all those other things, but it was just the changes in my life. Having to deal with my physical issues and not being able to do as much as I did while I was on active duty. So, you feel like just kind of half of a person. You didn't feel like you really measured up, and along with that, within the military you have a certain physical standard that you have to keep. Well, if you can't move, you can't exercise, then your physical appearance goes down because you gained weight or however. So, then it comes to that vicious cycle and all those things are different things that we talked about and how to maintain and how to see myself for what I am, not the picture that I made in my head.
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The first step in addressing your challenges is to acknowledge that gambling has become a problem in your life and recognize that it is possible to make a change. Practice relaxation exercises such as deep breathing to manage stress and urges to gamble. Spend time with supportive people who do not gamble, and talk with your family, friends, or health care provider about what you're experiencing. They may be able to provide support and help you find solutions that are right for you. Learn more steps you can take on our Gambling page.
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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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