After Jasmine left the Navy and went to college, she felt out of place around other students. It was hard for her to make friends. In class and at work, others didn't seem to share her dedication and commitment. Jasmine took advantage of resources at VA and on campus. Support helped her manage her challenges and finish her degree.
View Video TranscriptJasmine:
The biggest thing for me is that I felt very out of place. I'm in a college environment, I'm working with kids that are my age but feeling like they're perceiving me as being this very hard Military girl and I was trying so hard to get out of that and I couldn't. No matter what I did seemed to change that about myself.
I would say that it made me definitely isolate more because especially being in class, you have people that don’t seem to… they take for granted the things that you no longer take for granted, i.e., being subordinate to your professor, being on time, doing things, just for the sake of getting them done.
It was just very hard to make friends at work because they never really seemed to be orderly. And I think the hardest thing with transitioning is that you want to be a civilian, you want to have the freedom, but then you also want to have that underlying structure, “Like these people don’t understand, like I’m on my scholarship, I’m on VA money, I’m here to like… my time is valuable, and so is theirs, why aren’t they doing it.” So, it made me incredibly frustrated. It made it very hard to enjoy school the first year and a half.
In tandem with going to the VA, I also was meeting with the Wellness Center at our school, a social worker, who referred me to a Vet Center that worked solely with Veterans and as a free service. And then also… So, I go see my Social Worker and then I’m medicated through the VA in which case I was prescribed medications, and then the Psychiatrist calls me once a month to see how I am doing.
I’ve been doing much better at trying to manage my symptoms and cope with them as they happen or even prevent them, and definitely the medication has been working and it helped me a lot with getting through school and finishing my degree, so.
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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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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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