When Vince came back from Iraq, he had trouble sleeping and flashbacks. He began taking narcotics to try and cope. Eventually, he developed a drug problem. At VA, he found support to overcome his addiction. A combination of medication and therapy helped him find ways to manage PTSD symptoms and get back on track.
View Video TranscriptInterviewee:
I came back and I started having problems, not being able to sleep. Slightly injured out there, had a little aches and pains.
Honestly, when I first got back in ’05, ’06, timeframe, it was just me being medicated. I wasn’t really making any therapy appointments. Started using the narcotics a lot to, I guess, help with the PTSD issues, you know, the flashbacks and the nightmares and the uneasy feelings, you know, to kind of escape. So, I started, I started abusing them, the medications.
You know, it was a new experience for me because I was in the Marine Corps for almost nine years, you know, and to be doing drugs like that was not my character.
Eventually, with the VA, you know, I got back on track and I got help for that. I got on medications that weren’t narcotic for my issues. I started going to a lot of therapy. Went to a PTSD program that helped a lot in Lyons, New Jersey. I did a lot. I started to; I saw myself. You could say I saw myself in this collision course with God knows what. And I picked myself up, you know, and I started to get myself the help I needed.
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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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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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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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