When Frank returned from the service, he used drugs to try to cope with symptoms of PTSD. DWIs and multiple arrests weren’t enough reason for Frank to stop using drugs, but an ultimatum from his wife persuaded him to enter a detox center. VA mentors stood by Frank throughout his sobriety journey as he repaired family relationships.
View Video TranscriptFrank:
My name is Frank, I served in the United States Marine Corp from 1987 to 1991 and immediately after that I served in the Army National Guard Reserve from ‘91 to ‘93.
When I got out of the military I was not prepared for what life had in store for me. So you know everyday was a struggle for me. The loss of sleep, you know having flashbacks of what has happened to me in my past, loud noises, certain things bother me, certain smells reminded me of some of the stuff that I had seen and some of the stuff that I had been involved in.
So, I felt like an outsider and I basically became a recluse. I stayed to myself a lot. I did what I knew best I went to drinking. Drinking would like numb my feelings. Soon after drinking it graduated to marijuana. At the highest level I experimented with cocaine also just not having to deal with my issues or anyone else issues just using was a way for me to escape. When I got my first DWI that wasn’t enough to make me want to stop. That started a snowball effect, I think I got arrested every week for 5 weeks. It had a lot to do with using. I cannot remember a time that I have ever been arrested, beat up, stabbed, shot or whatever if drinking or using wasn’t involved. I wind up homeless, I wind up going on welfare, I expected to be dead the way I was going. My wife now, but my fiancé at the time of my arrest you know she gave me an ultimatum she was like, “either you do something about your problem or there is going to be no more us.”
And I agreed to go into a DETOX. I went into Montrose VA drug and alcohol DETOX center. They strongly suggested that I go to the inpatient PTSD unit and I agreed. We had to get up and speak in front of the groups that we were in. That was my first indication of that there was help out there for me. After seven months of being clean I picked up and started drinking again. My father passed away. And I knew my father was terminally ill and it felt like a good idea to numb myself again and I received my second DWI arrest. This time I was in Veterans Court.
Drug treatment court is available to Veterans who have non violent charges. You have to maintain a journal of all self-help meetings you have been to. You have to maintain some type of employment. You have to go to outpatient treatment and they expect you not to use. The mentor I had was also in the military and was also a Marine Corp Veteran. There was so much identification because this person that became my mentor was also a former user. So just having someone that understood everything that I felt made it much easier for me to accept help from people. From the time that I went in there to the time that I graduated my life changed substantially. I was able to regain some things that I have lost in the process of using and most importantly was my family. Once my family seen me doing the right thing you know the trust started coming back. The good times started happening all over again. I was invited to come back as a mentor.
Volunteering for me is very important because you know just to see the progress, to see the smiles on peoples faces that never smiled before, it just gives me a feeling that I don’t think money can buy and by me giving back it kind of helps me to stay green and I want to be an example to them because if I can make it I feel like anyone can make it.
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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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Allowing social withdrawal or social isolation to continue unchecked will only make your situation more challenging. Consider reaching out to your family members, friends, or health care provider, even though it may be the last thing you feel like doing. Connect with Veterans' groups or participate in clubs or hobbies focused on something you like. Research shows that spending time talking with others improves your mood and has a positive effect on health. Learn more steps you can take on our Social Withdrawal and Isolation page.
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Video Title: A Veteran’s Journey From Homelessness to Hope
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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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Video Title: Vietnam Veterans’ Voices on Managing PTSD
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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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Dizziness
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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
Video Title: Ending the grip of nightmares and flashbacks
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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