Heidi joined the Navy to support her family, and she took full advantage of its resources, including mental health services. Since her discharge, VA has provided her with the continuing support system that keeps her from feeling alone.
View Video TranscriptHeidi:
My name is Heidi. I was in the Navy for about five and a half years. I joined the Navy because I was anticipating adopting my little brother and sister. I could kind of see the family deteriorating a little bit and so at the time, I was working three jobs and going to school full time, but I didn't have any benefits to take care of kids. At that time they were pretty young so I didn't want to risk it, so I joined the military to support my family, basically.
When I first joined the military, I immediately worked with Mental Health. I met this amazing psychiatrist at Jacksonville and I was starting to work on a rape issue that I had from when I was 14, and so at the time I was 24, so it was ten years later. I was really kind of finding this place where the therapy was working and I was feeling good, and then poof. That had to be put on hold because that’s when I found out that my mother had a heroin addiction and I had to make things go faster.
At that time and over the next year, I had been working to acquire the legal status to be able to get my little brother and sister and then deal with what was going on with my mom, but for the first time in my life I had these physical manifestations from the stress which I never experienced. I had migraines, I was always nauseous, throwing up, dropping weight like crazy, and not wanting to eat. I normally have insomnia issues, but this was really magnified and then when I did sleep, I was having really weird nightmares.
My mom passed away and so I had to go home and scoop up the kids and clean up the “estate”, we’ll call it. At that point, before I left, I checked in with the Command. As soon as I got back, I tried to organize my mental health care, and then as soon as I was able to, it took a while, but I had my little sister set up with Mental Health, as well.
One of the things about when you’re in the military is that you have this not only sense of camaraderie, but a network that supports you and when you’re a civilian and a Veteran, you kind of feel alone. But the VA has that continuing sort of support system that I think is fantastic.
Since I’ve discharged from the Navy I have been going to the VA as soon as I was available to do so. The Mental Health Clinic there is pretty comprehensive. I get care from Women’s Health Clinic to Mental Health to a Primary Care Provider. If I’m sick I can just go in. Now with the VA they have that new system where you can actually email your doctor. It’s amazing.
When times are tough, you don’t just give up and feel sorry for yourself. You handle it and you go through the proper channels that are set in place for a reason. Mental Health Clinics aren’t just there for weak people. They’ve been around for a while. They’re there for people to work through their problems in a timely manner and handle things. I want people to see that strong, confident, and professional people can do these things and it doesn’t lessen any of their character. It’s a way to handle things in a professional way.
No matter what you may be experiencing, there is support for getting your life on a better track. Many, many Veterans have found the strength to reach out and make the connection.
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If you are experiencing dizziness, lie down for a few minutes with your head slightly elevated. Lifestyle changes such as drinking more water, getting enough rest, and avoiding alcohol or drugs can help. Medications and medical conditions such as heart disease or ear issues can also cause dizziness; consult a medical provider if you get dizzy on a regular basis. If you suddenly lose function in part of your body (e.g., arm weakness, face drooping, difficulty speaking) along with experiencing vertigo, this can indicate a serious problem, such as a stroke. Call 911 and seek medical help immediately. Learn more steps you can take on our Dizziness page.
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A flashback can be distressing for you and those around you. Try grounding yourself by focusing on details of your surroundings or neutral physical sensations, such as the feeling of your feet on the floor. Call someone you trust and tell them what is happening. Your family, friends, or health care provider may be able to provide support and help you deal with your flashbacks. Learn more steps you can take on our Flashbacks page.
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Learn what triggers episodes of noise or light irritation. Try making adjustments to computer and TV screens, and ensure you get the right amount of sleep. If you're taking medication and want to know if it could be affecting your sensitivity to noise or light, talk to your doctor. Certain drugs or medications may cause vision or hearing problems. Never stop taking a prescription without first consulting a medical professional. Learn more steps you can take on our Noise or Light Irritation page.
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Nightmares
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To manage upsetting feelings after a nightmare, focus on what's real by touching and describing objects around you. If you're unable to sleep within 15 minutes, leave your bed briefly to wash your hands or drink water while avoiding any strenuous activity. Also, talk to your family, friends, or health care provider about what you're experiencing. They may be able to provide support and help you find solutions. Learn more steps you can take on our Nightmares page.
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High-Risk Activities
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What can I do about drinking or drug use?
There are many options for Veterans who want to cut down on or stop drinking alcohol or using drugs. One option is counseling, either one-on-one or in a group. Another involves medication to help reduce use. A third option is mutual-help groups. You can work with your doctor or counselor and try different types of treatment to find the one that's best for you. Learn more steps you can take on our Alcohol or Drug Misuse page.
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Gambling
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If I’m experiencing a gambling problem, what can I do about it right away?
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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Reckless Behavior
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What can I do if I’ve noticed myself engaging in reckless behavior?
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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