After Jodie was sexually assaulted by two fellow Marines, she was immediately connected to a military counselor. Yet, even after she left the Marines, she had not completely recovered. Another Veteran encouraged Jodie to seek VA support, where she was treated for PTSD and bipolar. Now she is able to manage her symptoms and live a fulfilling life.
View Video TranscriptJodie:
Hi, I'm Jodie. I served in the Marine Corp in Desert Storm era. I was stationed in Okinawa, Japan. My job was administrative. I wanted to join the Marine Crop, because actually my first boyfriend went in the marines, and my uncle was a Vietnam Veteran. I was stationed in Camp Lejeune first, and then I took off 30 days, and my first tour of duty was in Okinawa on Camp Hansen. Unfortunately, I was brutally attacked, sexually assaulted by two fellow Marines that were in my company, one in whom I was befriended and trusted. The process immediately started. The Marine Corp actually did take full authority of the situation, investigated it thoroughly, and I feel like you know now, I have my justice. Actually, the night of the rape when I was in the hospital, they just transferred me to a counselor and to a social worker. I started receiving help before I departed, but shortly after that, I chose to get out.
It was only in 2004, because of another Veteran, that I filed a claim for the PTSD, because I realized I couldn’t hold down a job. I still could not adapt to society when it came to employment. And so, I started reaching out for mental health help in the county I was living in, but I could not seem to get rid of the anxiety and the dreams and just the desire to want to be in the military but not being in it anymore. So, I reached out, and I got help from them, and as my claim progressed, then I started going to the VA Hospital.
When I went to the VA Hospital in Huntington, West Virginia, they immediately saw that I had PTSD and bipolar. I have been in the MST program, group counseling twice. It helped me identify, because it was all women actually, and I learned a lot, and I learned that I wasn’t the only one that had endured such a traumatic event, and it was easier to share you know and have compassion for each other. Group had taught us to care for ourself. I’ve always had individual therapy. I just went through a PTSD program, and it’s like a 16-week treatment plan where you discuss the traumatic event with your counselor or your psychologist, and you relive it until you realize that you’re not living in that moment any longer.
I went to a base, and I realized that I still had some anxieties. I did have some flashbacks when I would see the artillery, but it was a different reaction this time, and I can tell that the groups and the therapy that I have received from the VA have truly helped, because I knew where I was in the moment even though I was still having some mild symptoms, but it’s nothing compared to what I used to deal with before I was on medication and before I received all this treatment. The symptoms that I used to experience was withdrawal. I would have anxiety really bad, cold sweats, very bad nightmares, inconsistent sleep, flashbacks if I would hear like certain gunshots, things like that. Now between dealing with it and being on the medication, I really don’t have any symptoms to be honest with you. I have some mild disruptions at times, but it’s very manageable.
Being bipolar has been very difficult for me. I didn’t believe in the medications, but I would have so many ups and so many downs that it was hard to manage my life. I would go to counseling, but I would become dependent upon counseling, because bipolars will become manic, and then we’ll skip out of treatment for three months at a time, and then we’ll be so adamant and involved, but during those times and the medication, it has balanced me out.
MST is something that a lot of people hide. I found through my counseling and through the MST that I went through the group that I went through, that it’s something that we have to live with. Something that happened to us, but it wasn’t because of us. It wasn’t because of me. I did not provoke it. I did not deserve it, but for many years, I lived with the guilt and the shame, the anxiety, the worrying. It was a power and control of authority misabused, and once you accept that and realize that, it’s easier to let go. So, I wish more people would be more apt to accept the fact that it does happen and talk about it, because talking about it only releases the grief and the forgiveness that you need to give to that person.
The last five years, I have been married to my third husband. He’s a Veteran as well. He’s prior Navy, and he has helped me tremendously when it comes to dealing with my PTSD. He understands. He understands the military. He understands what we have been through. So, he has been very helpful in my treatment. I enjoy being a Veteran, and if I could reach out to any other Veteran out there that has experienced military sexual trauma or has PTSD in general, I suggest you go to your local VA Medical Center and reach out for help, because they are there, and they care.
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 loss of interest or pleasure, try to plan a pleasurable activity daily, even if it's something small. Physical activity can improve your mood and help you sleep better. Talking to your family, friends, or health care provider about what you're feeling can also be helpful. They may be able to provide support and help you discover what is causing you to lose interest in things you once enjoyed. Learn more steps you can take on our Loss of Interest or Pleasure page.
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Video Title: A Veteran’s Journey From Homelessness to Hope
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Video Title: A Veteran reaches out for help with TBI symptoms
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If you are experiencing headaches, try to rest with your eyes closed and head supported. Getting enough sleep, eating regularly without skipping meals, staying hydrated, and maintaining good posture are simple lifestyle changes that can help you avoid or reduce headaches. Talk to your doctor if you experience frequent or recurring headaches, which can be a sign of a medical issue. Learn more steps you can take on our Headaches page.
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There are several ways to improve your sleep right away: (1) Make your bedroom a place just for sleeping—not for activities like watching TV, reading, working, or listening to the radio. (2) Avoid light exposure from screens at night, which can throw off your sleep cycle. (3) Avoid alcohol and large meals near bedtime. (4) Maintain a regular sleep schedule. In addition, 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 Trouble Sleeping 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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Video Title: Triggers | Signs of a Mental Health Challenge
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Video Title: A science class causes a flashback for Tim
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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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Video Title: I believe we're all in this together
Video Title: Counseling for PTSD leads to a work-study program
Video Title: Army Veteran Encourages Others To “Be Vulnerable” in Order To Heal
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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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Video Title: Recovering from flashbacks and nightmares
Video Title: Nightmares | Signs of a Mental Health Challenge
Video Title: The first thing I noticed was 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
Video Title: “We’re stronger together.” Army Veteran Urges Women Veterans To Get Support
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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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Video Title: Brenda found the support she needed to live well
Video Title: Gambling for the adrenaline rush
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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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Video Title: “Each day was a new opportunity.” Veteran Reflects on Sobriety Journey
Video Title: I was carrying a heavy load
Video Title: Veteran strength to reach recovery
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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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