Antonio began experiencing anxiety and depression while in the Navy. To deal with the stress of the job, he talked to a chaplain and went to counseling. He left the Navy and went back to school, but realized he still had issues he needed to address. He took advantage of VA resources to overcome his challenges.
View Video TranscriptAntonio:
I'm Antonio, and I was United States Navy, Boatswain's Mate. Well, in the Navy as a Boatswain's Mate it's the oldest rate in the Navy. You really can't escape it. It's not like you can just leave the ship. Especially when you're out to sea, you can't just leave and just say I don't want to deal with this today. You have to deal with it. You're like an angry dog in a cage being poked at. After a while, you have your breaking points. Sometimes there'd be fist fights and such. That's how we release our anger. But some people didn't do fairly well. Some people just broke down after a while.
My command had noticed basically he’s getting very aggressive for no reason at all at times. And it was just the job itself that really kind of just kept pushing at you. I’d have anxiety attacks, like speaking out. I had a hard time formatting a sentence. Just always so nervous like I was going to make a mistake. You know and being shot down or chewed out because I screwed up on something.
After leaving my first command I started to realize that hey, yeah, you’re not getting anywhere. You’re not achieving anything. You’re only getting yourself in more trouble and more trouble. So, when I had shore duty I worked with the chaplains and such. And the chaplains are basically a religious rate. They understand religion and just help you in terms of spirituality.
I had received some counseling in the service from my first command. That was with anxiety and depression. Just basically just the job itself because it kind of really got to me. But after I got out, I had a number of the issues still.
I’m not gonna lie to you. When I left the military, I was excited. Because I just wanted to be… I wanted that civilian life. Things that I had seen outside, I wanted that life. But it was pretty difficult at first, trying to adjust. Waking up at six wanting something to do. I would create activities for myself to do or routines to get things done. Actually, the first thing I did when I got out of the service was I went right to school.
My aggression could be understood in the service. My aggression outside the service was misunderstood. Yeah, I did. I think I lashed out at one of my professors. Yeah. It was a geography class. I remember. Yeah, I lashed out at him. He just calmed himself down, which was I realize, you’re not looking too well Antonio. So, then after that I just went and sought the help.
The VA was great. They’re very, very helpful. I mean, a lot of things I just didn’t know what to do or needed help within terms of medical, they were there. They were there. I can honestly say that especially the post 9-11, the GI Bill, how they had changed that, it helped out a lot because they pay off your tuition. They gave you additional money for books and gave you money to live off of.
It did a lot of social good for a lot of Veterans to just get a higher education and on top of that, to have the ability to call and say help yourself. The help is needed. A lot of us don’t know what to do when they get out of the service. They really don’t. They don’t even know what kind of career path they want to go into. And they just need the help. They need a better understanding. And actually, the VA helps them to understand what it can be like in civilian life. Not to struggle as hard. And I’m happy that the VA does exist to help those who are in need.
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.
An online source of information for persons seeking treatment facilities in the United States or U.S. territories for substance abuse/addiction and/or mental health problems.
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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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Noise or Light Irritation
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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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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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