Sam chose to use the combat stress center during his tour in Iraq. He thought his sleeping problems might be a sign of other issues, so when he came home, he went to a Vet Center and found a therapist to address his anxiety. He now has a good job with a security clearance, and he urges other Veterans who may be having challenges to seek support.
View Video TranscriptSam:
My name is Sam. I'm a Staff Sergeant in the Army Reserve. I've been deployed twice since September 11, actually three times since September 11. Before I had left for Iraq, my wife and I were having issues and it was just a hard time. I had tried to see someone while doing the train up to go to Iraq, but there just really wasn't time and then when I actually got to Baghdad, there was an opportunity to go to the Combat Stress Center or Unit and I saw people there. I was actually having a hard time sleeping, but my mother, she's dealt with depression, manic depression actually and so I knew what to look for and I was realizing I was having other problems too so I went to, first of all to get to sleep ‘cause I knew if I'm not sleeping, I'm not gonna be any good to anybody. My dad had been in the Navy as well and he had dealt with depression and he had dealt with the stigma too and he said that he wound up going to get help on the outside. He never did tell the Navy that he was having trouble, but he basically said, “What it comes down to is, it's your life. You need to be happy or at least functional. That's more important than any career.”
I went to a Vet Center ‘cause they did when we were coming back through Fort Dix, they do the out-processing stuff and one of the guys represented the Vet Center up there and he said, “We got them all over the place if you need some counseling or whatever, come on in.” It helped me deal with the stress of the Law Enforcement Academy ‘cause it’s like boot camp all over again. I didn’t really notice the anxiety until I got back from the academy and I was, probably just a natural reaction, but it seemed overblown to me that like getting stuck in traffic, I was getting so angry and I realized that that wasn’t cutting it. So, I found a doctor up here and got that under control.
Since coming back from Iraq and getting help and realizing that it’s not going to ruin your career that I wanted to make sure that other people knew that; that people could get help and not worry about it. I have a security clearance. I have a law enforcement job. I’m with the government. I’m in no danger of losing that because I got the help. If I wasn’t getting help, maybe I would be in a much worse place doing something stupid, maybe drinking too much, drugs; who knows. But this is helping so I got the job. I got security clearance and I’m not worried about it and I want to make sure that other people know about it too.
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 find yourself living with guilt or remorse about a past action or inaction, try to set aside time to think about your feelings. Remember that everyone has things they would have done differently—but no one can change the past or predict the future. Sometimes the experience is worse if you keep your feelings to yourself. Telling someone, like a family member or friend, about your regrets or guilty feelings can be a good first step to overcoming them. Learn more steps you can take on our Guilt page.
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There are several ways to improve your sleep right away: (1) Make your bedroom a place just for sleeping—not for activities like watching TV, reading, working, or listening to the radio. (2) Avoid light exposure from screens at night, which can throw off your sleep cycle. (3) Avoid alcohol and large meals near bedtime. (4) Maintain a regular sleep schedule. In addition, 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 Trouble Sleeping page.
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If you are experiencing confusion, try to slow down and focus on the task at hand. Take regular breaks to avoid feeling tired and overwhelmed. Avoid drinking alcohol, which can make confusion worse. Talk to your health care provider to determine whether a medical condition such as TBI might be contributing to the problem. You can also talk to a pharmacist about the possible effects of medications you're taking. Learn more steps you can take on our Confusion page.
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If you are experiencing difficulty concentrating, avoid distractions like loud music or the television. Develop a routine and try to stick to a regular schedule. Additionally, take regular breaks to prevent feeling tired. Talk to your health care provider to determine whether a condition such as TBI, ADHD, or anxiety might be contributing to the problem. You can also talk to a pharmacist about the possible effects of medications you're taking. Learn more steps you can take on our Difficulty Concentrating page.
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Dizziness
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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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Flashbacks
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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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Noise or Light Irritation
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If I'm experiencing noise or light irritation, what can I do about it right away?
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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If I’m having nightmares, what can I do about it right away?
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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