While teaching a science class, Tim suddenly had a flashback to his experiences in Vietnam, remembering some gruesome things he had seen. Fortunately, an assistant principal who was a fellow Veteran and understood his experiences was on hand to help him get through it.
View Video TranscriptTim:
I was in a classroom one day—it was anatomy class, and they spent the semester dissecting cats. And the first hour I was in there, I could just feel myself losing it. And then the second hour came and I taught, but I was just, just drifting away. And at the end of that class, I wandered out into the parking lot...and I was just...thinking about this naked body of a dead marine being lifted up into this helicopter. And one of the assistant principals happened to be a marine and came out. All I could say was, “Vietnam,” and he took me home. The staff was good. They didn't put me back in that room again.
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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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