Russ did two stints with the Navy. When he left, he felt as if he didn’t fit in as a civilian. He was angry, and he isolated himself. After he had a flashback while driving, he went to counseling at the Vet Center. Discussing his challenges in a group setting was good for Russ, who learned about his triggers and was able to open up.
View Video TranscriptRuss:
Hi, I'm Russ. I had two stints in the military, first one I was active duty back in 1985 through 1989. I got out, decided that I wanted to do something for my country again, enlisted into the Reserves, and ended up going to Kuwait. Once I returned, it was kind of awkward. I felt that I didn't really fit in. I felt uncomfortable being at home even though I had my family there. I was angry. I felt disconnected. I spent roughly a month in my bedroom isolated away from the rest of my family. I was depressed because I was away from everybody that I knew, my buddies, my battle buddies. I was depressed because I wasn't in a combat zone where I felt comfortable.
We were moving some stuff from one storage unit to another and I was going through a turn light and for whatever reason everything went to a point where as if I was in a convoy. All I saw was desert, the pickup that my wife was driving was a Humvee, the pickup that I was driving was a Humvee. When I got three-quarters of the way through the turn, I came out of it and realized that I had a yellow flashing light, and I was basically throwing my keys at my wife and said, "I'm not driving anymore." She ended up calling the Vet Center in Boise to get me set up for counseling.
Through the Vet Center I get one-on-one counseling therapy. It doesn't cover just one specific area, it covers the whole me. There's also group therapy. They ask us how we're doing because there maybe specific talk, something comes up in the news that maybe triggering something that triggers what goes on with us in our PTSD and we can talk about that in group and get ideas from each other how to cope and deal with that. You go into group and getting that stuff off my chest and talking, getting that camaraderie is worth it.
It's difficult for us as Veterans coming home from combat, it's difficult for us to say we need help. We see things that no other person sees when we're in a combat zone. We need to take and help ourselves because we've helped others. It's time to help us.
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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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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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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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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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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