Im More Lost Than Anything

[Wronway]

Hi, My name is Toby, Im 22 and in the national guard. I served in Iraq right after highschool and married my high school sweetheart and have a beautiful 3 month old daughter. I should be happy, but I get in these moods about twice a week where Im numb, no words can describe the feeling I feel nothing at all. My deployment was stressful but good, we didnt lose anyone the whole year we were over seas. We had some equipment injurys (we were heavy equiptment operators). We saw a few things that comes with a deployment I guess but life goes on. I never felt this way before the deployment, my friends I made there helped me make it through okay, and I admit I miss some of the fun we had. But now Im back in civilian life I just cant adapt. I hate to try to say its PTSD, when other soldiers that have it have a real reason. I just cant explain the way I feel. I advoid going to the VA because I dont want to look weak when nothing has happened to me. Is this normal?

 

[The Albatross]

No it's not normal... numbing out is avoidance for me and it was one of my first recognizable difficulties. Toby, you've served in Iraq and you are entitled to assistance if you need it. Get it now and learn the coping skills you need to be a whole person, a husband and a father. I'm so glad that you young people can recognize things now, I only had to suffer in silence with. Glad you're here.

 

[Wronway]

Thanks for the support, its just killing me affecting everything i do. I have to work on trying to go out with friends, I just dont want to leave the house. Thanks for the help, and thanks for the great site

 

[The Albatross]

If you're feeling it dude, it's valid. There is no measuring stick... we're all snowflakes... each different. You're acknowledging discomfort... it's there for a reason. Welcome and cast around for some resolve to be and aspire to be more than what you're feeling. You're worth it. Your wife and child are worth it. Hang tough.