Gotta Say Something

[Grainne]

Welcome Brian. I hope to see you post again - sometimes just getting it out of your own head helps in tiny ways.

I hope you find some peace and healing - wherever you seek it.

 

[QuietNow]

The Sooner The Better

Hi Brian,
I urge you to get in to at least see your Primary Care physician right now. Please, time is of the essence here.

PTSD surfaces after untreated trauma occurs. Think of it as internalized grief and guilt. You have to get into a place where you can safely let it out and deal with it out in the open. The longer it is sealed up, the more damage it is going to do to your psyche. If it goes on long enough, it starts making permanent brain changes that are hard to undo.

I fought against taking the meds for a few years, but they really are useful to let you get to a mental place where you can grieve and let go. I know that examining these things is terrifying to you right now, but the professionals can help.

If you are only about 5 months out from the end of your tour, you have a better than good chance to intercept this path and turn it around now. The sooner you walk into a professional's office, the better. Walk in, lay it out to them, and let them help you.

 

[Littleguy]

Welcome Brain and I hope you stay around. I am retired Navy and I would encourage you to contact the VA and get into their system because that will provide a record that will always be there.

 

[melissagrace]

...you can survive this. It will suck and then one day...not so much. You pull yourself forward one toe hold, one finger hold at a time. Eventually you are climbing out of the abyss. The world is brighter, the air fresher and sweeter because you, my friend, have been to the dark side. You are strong in all the broken places.
Paloma

These are powerful words, Paloma... Thanks for posting them... I hope Brian gets as much from them as I did...

best,
melissagrace