Daily combat in Iraq took a toll on Jeff. His sergeant sent him to the medic because of his trouble sleeping, and there he got treatment for combat stress. When he got home, he was quick to anger, and his marriage fell apart. He went to VA and met an OEF/OIF representative who connected him with therapy and resources to help him improve his life.
View Video TranscriptJeff:
I'm Jeff (00:01). I was in the Army. I ended up in Taji, Iraq, and Baghdad, Iraq. As a unit, we were engaged daily, absolutely. We would get mortar attacks, rocket attacks, BBIDs, IEDs. 2004, 2005 in Iraq was serious stuff. It took a toll on me and I couldn't sleep, started having nightmares, and I remember telling my Sergeant, I said, “I, I can't sleep, you know?” And he was like, “How long has it been going on?” I told him how long it had been going on and he's, he yelled at me and told me, “Come on, man, that's what the medics are for! Let's go right now!” And I'm like, “What are you talking about?” “Come on, let's go.” So, he took me to the medics. I was diagnosed with what they call combat stress. That's what they called it in Iraq, and they gave me some medication which helped me sleep and, and it just kept going on and on.
My wife at the time said that I changed, and I wasn’t the happy-go-lucky guy that I used to be, was very angry, very, very angry, and I got divorced soon after. I went to the nearest VA and I was greeted by the OEF, OIF program, who set me up at services and including mental health. And I’ve been in, engaged in, in services since I’ve been back. I have a diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder.
When I came back from Iraq, I would see a Therapist weekly. I now see one monthly. That is definitely a change. I’ve met a wonderful woman who has stuck by me and helped me out a lot. She deserves a lot of credit. She’s actually the only one that I really listen to when things get pretty bad in my head. She can actually hold me back. It’s a team effort, and it’s not just the wife, it’s also the guys. There’s certain things that you can talk to to certain people but you can’t with others.
The VA has been instrumental in getting me to where I am today. If there wasn’t the services that they offer, God knows where I would be right now. Get that paperwork and head on out to the VA. I’m telling you, that’s what I did and that’s what I tell all my guys, and not all of them have listened to me. There’s just a lot of things that are, that, I don’t know if they could be avoided, but there’s help out there so that it doesn’t get to that point.
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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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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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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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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