General How On Earth Do I Have More Tears To Cry?

[Mary Black]

I'm a military spouse and have been separated from my husband for several years now. But I can look back and see that it does this to people. It makes it hard to keep that cohesion. And I think people have some idea that it will be like that when they sign up but they don't know just how unstable and hollow it can make their lives in the long run.

Hi Stacey85, I can't give any advice as I am living it still. I left my husband of over 27 years due to the ongoing battle of PTSD. That was 10 weeks ago and all of his promises to get help if I just left him alone have fallen by the wayside. I too feel like our marriage and family and all that we endured so he could have his military career and get his stinking medals, was all for nothing. I totally understand how you feel and the suffering you are going through. I am on antidepressants myself and attend counselling but I just feel like I am in limbo, do I give up and move on or sit and wait to see if he gets help and wants me back in his life.

I think the military has a lot to answer for, they compensate the soldier but what about the discarded families. I am struggling along on a meagre income, in a small rental property with 2 of our 4 children (the other 2 are married), while he is stagnating in our house. I am scared instigating property setlement will push him over the edge but my funds are fast running out. Don't get me wrong I love him but life sucks big time thanks to PTSD.

Hang in there. Take care of yourself for you and your children's sakes. I too am hoping for a happy ending to this mess.

 

[Bilby]

So glad to hear this Stacey.

I know what it was like going to see my husband whilst he was an in-patient - I could see how much difference the treatment/therapy was making and it was such a relief, a really incredible feeling :)

B x

 

[Stacey85]

Well, he's been home for a week and a half now. First before he came home he was writing me letters and being very nice over the phone. It seemed as if I was getting my husband back one piece at a time, which was amazing to me. Now that he's home, it's like he never left for the treatment center. We're right back to where he was, starting the very next day after he got home. I don't know what's left, honestly. I feel so stuck. Sometimes I feel like I should just leave, but I have no idea how to start over with 3 young children, and only a high school education. I've spent the last 4 years supporting him and his career, and raising our children. That doesn't earn any respect out in the real world as far as getting a good paying job where I can support myself and my kids.