When Ernie left military service, he missed the support of his fellow Marines, and he often felt on edge and aggressive. Eventually, he reached out to VA and started individual counseling. Therapy restored balance to Ernie’s life and guided him back to school. Now, he shares his story of success with other Marines.
View Video TranscriptErnie:
My name is Ernie. I was in the United States Marine Corps, active duty. I served 13 years. Being under patrols, we were always constantly in danger. The vehicles not stopping, just the IEDs was the biggest problem.
We just went on one of our daily patrols and one of the potholes was filled in with dirt and we ran it over. I looked out the window and I saw a flash and then I heard the explosion and the smoke and dust. I woke up outside. The Humvee door, the window was shattered. The door was off the hinges. That kinda made me realize that I was in a war.
Getting out of the Marine Corps, I was kind of excited but then when I really found out that I was all alone, my Marine Corps brothers weren’t there, nobody was there to guide me, I found myself always constantly looking on rooftops. Helicopters would fly by from the police department and I’d always scan and things like that, hyper-alertness. If there was an accident or something going on, I’d always be the first one out the car or be the first one on the scene and that’s when my wife noticed that I needed help.
I read an article in a newspaper saying that there was free help, mental health, from local therapists. They told me that there was one in Beverly Hills so I went to go see her and she was a licensed therapist and she diagnosed me with PTSD.
I would go over my fears of driving and just this hyper-alertness. And then the war is still going on and my friends were dying and I felt like I needed to be there with them. People would get in car accidents, I would be dragging them out of the car. I think that was just trying to compensate to get that adrenaline rush again.
I finally snapped. I was doing things that was out of my normal. My attitude changed; I was getting a little aggressive. People would tell me that I’m different because we would go to parties and I would always be by the door, by the back. I’d always be scanning.
At that time, I only checked into the VA just to tell them where I lived and to get my card. I didn’t really think about the services and they told me there’s classes, for returning Combat Veterans and I wasn’t ready to go to group therapy. I needed to talk to somebody one-on-one. The VA Clinic was right next door and they have their own therapist and so once a week, I go see her. Before, I couldn’t see myself going back to school and being around other people. Being a full-time student, you have to interact with the students and the teachers there, and I had that fear I couldn’t do it, but once going through counseling, I’m able to cope with my anxiety.
A lot of guys call me up still. My former Marines and they still want to know, where they can get help because they hear my success stories, and they kinda want to know the information from me. You know you have a problem and there’s somebody there to help you with it, and they’re going to guide you the right way.
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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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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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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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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