Ed served in the Army during Vietnam. After his time in the service, he began using drugs, and he stayed home a lot. He never talked about his experiences in Vietnam. When he retired, Ed decided he needed to see somebody. At the Vet Center, he found the support and resources he needed to succeed. Now, he knows he is not alone.
View Video TranscriptEd:
My name is Ed, I joined the Army in November of ‘68. I was trained as a motorman and the secondary MOS was infantry, 11 Bravo. I served in Vietnam 17 days short of a year.
We are from a background of drinking. Everybody drank and went to work, when you got off work you drank. So that didn’t seem like it was a problem, that just seemed like normal way of life, but then I used to smoke a lot of pot. Then one day it just all of a sudden I smoked a joint and I turned around and went back home. I couldn’t go out anymore, I quit going out at night, it was just, I was going to get in trouble if I went out at night. Once I got divorced I was like ostracized from being with my friends as a group.
My father and mother never said a word about it to me, you know. They were all very close with her. I did not react towards my family, but a lot of it where I didn’t feel like I was part of it. People clammed up after Vietnam. They never talked about it. My dad never talked to me about it. He was combative infantry in World War II. It was just you came back and you went right back to where you were two years before that as if nothing happened. I think that is part of the reason things got buried, for myself anyway.
It wasn’t until after I retired things changed. Once I retired I just wasn’t…it is like I was always in a work crew, I was never a boss, so for all those years, maybe 30 years I was always told what to do and I was fine with that, but once I retired it just all changed. At one point I said I need to see somebody. This guy that I saw and I still see I tell people he was my rode map. He says this is what you need to be doing, this is who you need to talk to. This is your next step and stuff like that. So, I contacted the VA, but I could always go back to my vet center and talk one on one with this guy to where he just, he was just my road map. He kept me focused. I found out that I wasn’t alone, I mean I wasn’t the only one experiencing this. I didn’t know anything about PTSD, when I saw this doctor she told me, “well this is PTSD” and I didn’t know that. I could deal with anger better, I learned that I am not the only person with problems. This other person might have a problem.
So I just become more tolerant in a way. I don’t let minor things bother me. So if you’ve got a little problem or you think you have a problem, or a big problem, I don’t know just maybe stop in the vet center. That is the street level entrance into the VA system as far as I can see. You can just stop in and talk, set up an appointment, start out with that. Or talk to somebody like myself who’s been there, you know. I have steered a lot of guys to that very vet center over there. And just start out with the basics.
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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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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