Three Veterans speak candidly about the challenges they experienced after returning from the service. Hear these Veterans and their families describe how mental health treatment helped them live happier, healthier lives.
View Video TranscriptTony:
So, my wife Kacie is the best thing that ever happened to me. She helped get me sober, she supported me through me getting my bachelor's degree in nursing, and she's supporting me now while I'm going to nurse practitioner school.
My name is Tony. I was U.S. Army from 2003 to 2011. So transitioning out, that was a nightmare. Actually, when I was getting out, I kind of was in recognition that there was a problem but I didn't really own the alcoholism thing. I drank during the service and I really started to drink heavily after the first tour.
Kacie:
I'm Kacie, I've been Tony's wife. We've been married for just about four years, I think. We've been together for maybe five and a half, I don't know, we're not good at keeping track of it.
Tony:
When I overdid it on St. Patty's Day, I got a DUI. At that point, that was the last straw. I was ready to change. And then Kacie saying, “No more. If anything like this ever happens again, I'm out." That's fair, let's do that. Let's stop.
Jeffrey:
I've just always wanted kids. So we have Jamie, nine, Naomi's six, and then we have Anika who's four. They're great, they just love to be out and active. My name's Jeffrey. I'm in the Army National Guard. I served overseas in 2010, 2011. Oh man, yeah, I've been shot at, I've been blown up,
we've been mortared, rocketed.
Cora:
My name is Cora. I've been married to Jeffrey for almost seven years now. Around the time that I met Jeff, he wasn't sleeping, he had limited self-care, he was also just really guarded. Not like in an in touch with his emotions way, but like avoiding emotions, sensitive way.
Jeffrey:
I had a really terrible past and then I had a really tough time overseas too. If it wasn't for my wife, I wouldn't be here. I almost committed suicide over this 'cause it was such a mess. I don't know what it was that my wife saw but she noticed something and she took all my weapons and I noticed that there was no weapons around. She was like, “No, you need to call your therapist. You need to actually do something. Don't run from this. This is, um, this is a permanent solution to a temporary problem.”
Ruth:
Having my family out here has meant so much to me. They are such a fantastic support. I'm Ruth, I was in the Navy in 1986 and 1987. After my service school, I was stationed overseas
in the Azores, Portugal and as many people know, I was sexually assaulted over there. And in the '80s, that was a time when they didn't want to acknowledge that sexual assault was happening so they created a fictitious diagnosis called personality disorder. So I lived with 23 years of compounded injuries from untreated sexual assault.
Butch:
I met Ruth working for a blueberry company. She was tallying up boxes while I was raking blueberries.
Ruth:
It just clicked and in 1997, we got together and I was really rough around the edges, very PTSD direct.
Butch:
Some of the things is she started shying away from busy places. She didn't want to be around that many people.
Ruth:
Aside from the self-doubt, a lot of anger, a lot of sleeplessness, a lot of flashbacks. I've always had a problem with my weight. After I was assaulted, I became anorexic.
Butch:
And it came along to the point where I said, “You know, you're a Veteran. They should be able to do something. Go get help. That's what it's there for.”
Tony:
I went for help at the Vet Center, which is great. They helped me as well. They do my counseling for the program that I'm in and everything.
Kacie:
Oh my God, it was a huge change. I mean, he just, I can't say he's not the same person
he was, but all the best parts of him have come out, even better.
Jeffrey:
I found out later that I had PTSD, TBI, GAD, which is general anxiety disorder. It's hard to find someone that you're gonna trust to open up with. I feel finding someone who you're comfortable with is definitely key to healing and progression.
Ruth:
I met an incredible psychiatrist and he said, “You're dealing with untreated PTSD.” The biggest takeaway was to trust myself, trust my instincts. Stopping to realize that not everybody is my enemy. Nobody's perfect.
Tony:
They diagnosed me with moderate to severe PTSD and then I went through CBT, which is cognitive behavioral therapy.
Kacie:
And then at some point there, bulbs just started to light up for him and he became so relaxed, so go-with-the-flow and easygoing.
Jeffrey:
I wanted to better myself so that my daughter didn't have to live with the person that was so explosive and that was the main reason. Like, once it was pointed out, it was like, “Oh, I don't want my daughter to grow up around that.” So I did a little bit of research and the Vet Center seemed like the best bet.
Ruth:
I'm a healer, I'm a mother, I'm a wife, and I believe in the good of humanity.
Kacie:
I've told him many times how proud I am of him for doing the treatment, for going through with the treatment when it was so hard and he didn't want to do it anymore and he wanted to leave. Like I said, he's a different person in a lot of ways than he used to be.
Jeffrey:
If you can find programs that get you out there like recreational therapies out there, I think because they incorporate your entire family in that process, do it. You know, it's just gonna build strength later on.
Ruth:
Having my daughter and having my husband gives me a reason so when I can't see the good, I focus on them and I remember that they are my reason now. They're my mission so that's how I keep going.
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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Anger & Irritability
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Video Title: This Marine Veteran Manages Anger With Distance Running and Coping Techniques
Video Title: Anything's Possible
Video Title: Marine Gets Opportunity To Pick Up His Life After Substance Misuse
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If I'm experiencing anger & irritability, what can I do about it right away?
Some anger management strategies include walking away from the situation, maintaining a regular sleep schedule, taking slow, deep breaths, and exercising regularly. You can also talk to your family, friends, or health care provider about your anger and irritability. They may be able to provide support and help you find resources that are right for you. Learn more steps you can take on our Anger and Irritability page.
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Feeling on Edge
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Video Title: “I like who I am now.” Marine Veteran Rediscovers Her Worth Through Therapy
Video Title: Finding ways to deal with feeling on edge
Video Title: Hypervigilance | Signs of a Mental Health Challenge
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If you are feeling on edge, breathe deeply. Try grounding yourself by focusing on your surroundings or neutral physical sensations, like the feeling of your feet on the floor. Your family, friends, or health care provider may be able to provide support and help you find treatment that is right for you, so turn to them whenever you are ready. Learn more steps you can take on our Feeling on Edge page.
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Feelings of Hopelessness
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Video Title: I’m not a victim anymore
Video Title: Dealing with feelings of hopelessness in therapy
Video Title: Healing after feeling hopeless
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If I’m feeling hopeless or having thoughts of hurting myself, what can I do about it right away?
If you are a Veteran or know a Veteran who is feeling hopeless or having thoughts of suicide, talk to someone right away. Consider sharing what you're feeling and thinking with your family, friends, or health care provider. In addition, you can call the Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988 and then Press 1, chat online at VeteransCrisisLine.net, or send a text to 838255. The Veterans Crisis Line offers free, confidential support, 24/7. Learn more steps you can take on our Feelings of Hopelessness page.
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Guilt
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Video Title: Finding Your Purpose
Video Title: Compassion and Forgiveness
Video Title: Army Veteran Crafts a Better Life Through Mental Health Treatment
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If I'm experiencing guilt, what can I do about it right away?
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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Loss of Interest or Pleasure
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Video Title: “I wasn't ready.” Army Veteran Discusses PTSD and Being Open to Healing
Video Title: Her father saw the signs and recommended help
Video Title: Recovering from a father’s death
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If I'm experiencing loss of interest or pleasure, what can I do about it right away?
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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Social Withdrawal & Isolation
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Video Title: Connecting with others to find a fulfilling life
Video Title: “You just continually heal.” Veteran Shares How Women’s Therapy Groups Helped Her Rebuild Her Life
Video Title: Getting back on track in civilian life
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If I’m withdrawing from others or isolating myself, what can I do about it right away?
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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Stress & Anxiety
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Video Title: Navigating Life's Transitions
Video Title: Grounded in the Present
Video Title: A New Purpose
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What can I do if I’m experiencing stress and anxiety?
If you're experiencing stress and anxiety, try practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, to help you cope when things upset you or don't go according to plan. In addition, 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 Stress and Anxiety page.
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Social or Relationship Challenges
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Relationship Problems
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Video Title: Veteran on Maintaining Sobriety: “I get better by helping others.”
Video Title: Curtis’ wife was the reason he reached out
Video Title: Coming home was tougher than Jamie expected
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If I'm experiencing relationship problems, what can I do about it right away?
Many Veterans have overcome relationship problems that arose after time away from family or after stressful situations. Try making a "communication plan" to express your thoughts and feelings with loved ones by considering what to say and how. Writing down these thoughts can help your family and friends better understand your circumstances and assist you in finding support. Learn more steps you can take on our Relationship Problems page.
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Physical Symptoms
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Video Title: Getting Your Life Back
Video Title: About Getting Support, Marine Corps Veteran Says: “It felt good to talk to somebody that listened.”
Video Title: A Hand Up
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If you are experiencing chronic pain, there are a few things you can do to improve your well-being: (1) Tell your doctor about it. They can help develop a treatment plan. (2) Find ways to stay physically active, according to your doctor's recommendations. (3) Keep a "pain diary," where you can record your progress with pain and how it affects your life. Learn more steps you can take on our Chronic Pain page.
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Eating Problems
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Video Title: Setting Up for Success
Video Title: Learning skills in therapy to manage anxiety
Video Title: Treatment helped after a traumatic brain injury
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If I'm experiencing eating problems, what can I do about it right away?
If you are experiencing eating problems, find healthy ways to manage stress, such as taking a walk, going for a run, practicing relaxation exercises like deep breathing or meditation, or doing something nice for yourself like watching a movie or reading. 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 Eating Problems page.
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Headaches
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Video Title: A Veteran’s Journey From Homelessness to Hope
Video Title: Treatment for TBI improved David's life
Video Title: A Veteran reaches out for help with TBI symptoms
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If I'm experiencing headaches, what can I do about it right away?
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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Trouble Sleeping
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Video Title: “We’re still comrades.” Army Veteran Describes His Systems of Support
Video Title: Vietnam Veterans’ Voices on Managing PTSD
Video Title: Admitting she needed support was the first step
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If I’m having trouble sleeping, what can I do about it right away?
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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Cognitive Symptoms
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Confusion
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Video Title: Sometimes it's more than a physical injury
Video Title: Steps to overcome panic attacks
Video Title: Everything seems like a potential threat
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If I'm experiencing confusion, what can I do about it right away?
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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Difficulty Concentrating
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Video Title: My life has gotten so much more livable
Video Title: Solutions for difficulty concentrating
Video Title: Taking steps to improve memory helped her husband
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If I'm experiencing difficulty concentrating, what can I do about it right away?
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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Video Title: I don't know what would've happened without VA
Video Title: Coping with TBI to improve quality of life
Video Title: Army Veteran learns to manage TBI symptoms
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If I'm experiencing dizziness, what can I do about it right away?
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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If I’m experiencing a flashback, what can I do about it right away?
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: After Challenges With Gambling and Substance Use, Veteran Finds Tools To Recover
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: After Challenges With Gambling and Substance Use, Veteran Finds Tools To Recover
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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