Supporter Wife Of Usaf Vet W/ptsd, Alcohol Abuse

[Inthistogether]

It's getting late, and I'm tired, but if I don't get my intro thread started tonight, it feels like it might never get done. I'm just gonna post some of my background story here quickly and try not to worry about composing it "well".

We've been married 9 years, high school sweethearts. Tied the knot just before he enlisted, but had been engaged before the idea of joining the military was on the radar.

He separated from the Air Force 4 yrs ago after 6 years of service. Was deployed 3 times, the final deployment involved combat situations. About 2 years after he got out, it became obvious that we were dealing with PTSD, not just a marriage that needed work, and a drinking habit.

We got involved with the Vet Center, and have learned a lot. Knowing what PTSD is, recognizing what we're dealing with and starting in on the process of dealing with it has been the foremost issue in our lives over the past 2 years.

Recently, my husband has started attending a weekly group at the Vet Center for OIF/OEF vets and we also see a marriage/family therapist there. He's not yet ready to get help with his alcohol issues, but he has agreed to meet with someone next week to discuss what programs are available through the VA here.

There are group available to me as a spouse/supporter, but logistically, with family life (we have 2 young kids) and jobs etc, it just seems like too much to take on. So, I thought I'd start here.

I'm looking forward to being a part of the group. If I'm scarce for about a week, it's because the kids and I are participating in ScreenFree Week next week, turning off the tv, computer etc.

Thanks in advance everyone :)

 

[amethist]

Hi Inthistogether

Welcome to the forum.

Come down to the supporters area, where you will find other military supporters, who will be able to relate to you more than you could wish for.

Remember to put yourself first sometime's too, it is important and will help you keep going with everything else.

Take care.

Amethist

 

[Anna]

I'm looking forward to being a part of the group. If I'm scarce for about a week, it's because the kids and I are participating in ScreenFree Week next week, turning off the tv, computer etc.

Welcome to the forum :) There is an excellent supporters section here.

Screenfree week? Sounds like a great idea. We do that to. Is great to be in the great outdoors sometimes. My family and I go cycling a lot. Fresh air does wonders!

 

[sisu]

Welcome Inthistogether!! My guy has combat PTSD from his time in the military too. Come join us in the supporters section. Take care! Sisu

 

[ProudWife99]

Welcome! My husband also has Combat PTSD and I each time I think have the dips and curves of the roller coaster memorized, I'm screaming on another downward slope! It sounds to me like your husband is very open to treatment and the idea that he needs help to get better. People spend half their lives just fighting that battle.

Would you tell him it doesn't make logistical sense for him to attend his therapy and group sessions because of your children? You being healthy is JUST as important for them as him being healthy. Do not make what he needs more important than what you need. Your support/therapy is as equally important.

 

[Inthistogether]

Thank you for that insight, I know you are right about it.. just hard to take on another item on the weekly to-do list. I will be poking around the supporters section :)