As a Marine in Iraq, Mike’s job was to locate IEDs. After he came home, he learned one of his close friends had been killed while deployed. Mike was in a dark place, so he went to VA. Talking with a counselor helped him work through his feelings and get back on track.
View Video TranscriptMike:
My name is Mike. I served in the Marine Corps on active duty from 2001 to 2005 and was a Mobilized Reservist from 2008 to 2010. I was a military working dog handler. My dog, his name was Rex. Rex and I got attached to 2nd Battalion 2nd Marines which operated in an area called Mohammedia and also Fallujah and our job was to find and locate IEDs. I had a whole plan in order. I was gonna do the fence contract and then go back overseas, but I found out that the last patrol that I was supposed to go on, my dog and I were loaded in the vehicle. We were about to go on patrol and we got yanked at the last second, and on that patrol, my vehicle that I would've been in, went over an IED and was blown up. The shrapnel went through my seat and went through Rex's seat. The other marines in the vehicle were wounded pretty bad but they survived. My buddy who was in that vehicle, he kept a video camera on the dashboard and after they got hit, he took it off. After he shook himself off, he took it off and videotaped the vehicle, videotaped the IED, put it on a DVD and sent it to me months after I got home.
When I watched that video, it just hit me. Like I was ready to go back to work and I just realized that’s not what I want to do. Right after I got out, one of my best friend was a dog handler. He was killed. He was letting me live in his room and his apartment to help maintain it while he was deployed, and so I went back to his place and I helped his brother clean out his room. As I was helping his brother clean out the room, you know, it just kind of hit me, like I don’t know, everything was just kind of hitting me at that time. Like I just got out. I just saw that I missed being blown up. My best friend just got killed. I was just in a dark place because I realized I was kind of suppressing it. I just knew on my own that I was suppressing that stuff. I just needed someone to talk to. And just let all of that. Get it all aired out. That’s really all I needed. Was just someone to vent to and talk about the feelings and experiences I had gone through.
So I went to the VA in Long Beach and thankfully the counselor that I talked to she was really, really nice, and I don’t know, I just feel like I connected with her right away. The VA offers individual, group, and all these great programs and resources. Veterans go through all this training and they go through all this experience and they want to feel that they’re not just physically tough, but they’re also mentally tough, and so that there can be a negative stigma in reaching out to get some kind of help mentally. But you know, if you get injured physically, you have no problem going out to get help. There’s not even a second thought. It’s like “Hey I’m hurting. I need to so see the doctor.” Well mentally it should be the same way. For any Veteran out there that is thinking about getting help, you just have to be proactive in reaching out for it. And there’s really no shame in doing it. It’s there for you to reach out to. Don’t feel like you’re taking advantage of anything. You should be taking advantage of it because you earned the right to do that.
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 find yourself living with guilt or remorse about a past action or inaction, try to set aside time to think about your feelings. Remember that everyone has things they would have done differently—but no one can change the past or predict the future. Sometimes the experience is worse if you keep your feelings to yourself. Telling someone, like a family member or friend, about your regrets or guilty feelings can be a good first step to overcoming them. Learn more steps you can take on our Guilt page.
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If you are experiencing confusion, try to slow down and focus on the task at hand. Take regular breaks to avoid feeling tired and overwhelmed. Avoid drinking alcohol, which can make confusion worse. Talk to your health care provider to determine whether a medical condition such as TBI might be contributing to the problem. You can also talk to a pharmacist about the possible effects of medications you're taking. Learn more steps you can take on our Confusion page.
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If you are experiencing difficulty concentrating, avoid distractions like loud music or the television. Develop a routine and try to stick to a regular schedule. Additionally, take regular breaks to prevent feeling tired. Talk to your health care provider to determine whether a condition such as TBI, ADHD, or anxiety might be contributing to the problem. You can also talk to a pharmacist about the possible effects of medications you're taking. Learn more steps you can take on our Difficulty Concentrating page.
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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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If I'm experiencing noise or light irritation, what can I do about it right away?
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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If I’m having nightmares, what can I do about it right away?
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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High-Risk Activities
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Alcohol or Drug Misuse
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Video Title: Anything's Possible
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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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