Joel, a U.S. Marine Veteran, tried to hide his emotions after his deployment to Iraq. His parents noticed and encouraged him to get help. Receiving treatment for PTSD at a VA medical center helped Joel get back to the activities he loved, like riding his motorcycle with fellow Veterans.
View Video TranscriptJoel:
My name is Joel. I served from 1999 to 2003 in the United States Marine Corps, and I was a 0331 Machine Gunner. So, I remember I was at the rifle range on Camp Pendleton, over the loudspeaker they mentioned that a airplane had just struck the World Trade Center, and at first it didn't really mean a whole lot, because we didn't really know because back then, I mean, we didn't have cell phone reception there, it was just the only communication we were receiving was whatever they were telling us. They came out on the radio again and they just reminded us to make sure these rounds count because the US was under a terrorist attack.
Going into the invasion into Iraq, there was a lot of unknowns, but nothing can really prepare you for, like, the real thing. I guess the first traumatic experience for me was seeing all the artillery being fired over us as we were crossing into Iraq. That’s something that I’ll never forget and to this day, that’s why loud noises do trigger me sometimes and it’s hard to explain to people that weren’t there just because it’s those traumatic experiences.
I know there was some changes in me when I came back, but I kind of tried to hide that, and that’s why when I came back I didn’t really talk about it and tell anybody that I was in the service and kind of avoided the VA for a long time. In hindsight now I realize it was because I was suppressing my anxiety, depression, all my feelings. My parents, they noticed that there was something wrong with me, that I wasn’t the same person from when I’d come back from my deployment. They’re the ones that kind of pulled me aside and were like “Joel, we’re worried about you, we want you to go seek help.”
When I finally decided okay I need to do something because I’m having uncontrollable anxiety, I was just kind of scared because I didn’t know, like, who to call, like, what to say or anything like that, so I actually just went online and I just read on there, go to my local VA Hospital, and once I was able to get enrolled I was enrolled into, like, a PTSD clinic at the West Los Angeles VA, specifically for combat traumatic events.
My happy place is on the highway. Living in Los Angeles, we all know there’s traffic everywhere. So when you’re splitting lanes on a motorcycle after some therapy at the VA, it’s a nice way to decompress. Yeah, the VA is great, and the place I found is the American Legion, so I’m part of the American Legion in Hollywood, Post 43. They also have this organization called the Legion Riders that’s part of the American Legion, and right now I’m in the process of actually joining on that, and what it is just get together, ride motorcycles, fundraise for other nonprofits, it’s like, stuff that I avoided for a long time, and it’s like in every community, and it’s no judgment. You go there, it’s other Veterans that just want to make sure you’re okay.
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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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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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