Is this PTSD?

[2ndCEBSupply]

I have a sleeping problem the first week i got back from iraq in 2005 i was having real bad sleeping problems . I didnt see much combat and i dont want to go into details but when i came back i wasnt able to sleep for 4 days. My roomate would tell me that i would always talk in my sleep and move around alot he said i made him nervous at night. Its 2008 and now a clean cut civilan. This became serious when my girlfriend told me that i choked her one night during my sleep. I didnt belive her at first because i dont remember anything when i wake up but now she video tapes me at night when i act weird so im becoming worried about what might happen in the future and if i need help. If anyone has any type of information PLEASE let me know. I would rather stay away from the VA Hospital i get treated with no respect there.
http://www.leatherneck.com/forums/images/statusicon/user_online.gif

[ttracker65]

You need to document every thing and yes see a doctor and get profesional advice. We are not in our head but you are. Do you think your behavior is normal? If not get help and do not try to fight it alone. Just my openion

[Jonny Destroyer]

I have a sleeping problem the first week i got back from iraq in 2005 i was having real bad sleeping problems . I didnt see much combat and i dont want to go into details but when i came back i wasnt able to sleep for 4 days. My roomate would tell me that i would always talk in my sleep and move around alot he said i made him nervous at night. Its 2008 and now a clean cut civilan. This became serious when my girlfriend told me that i choked her one night during my sleep. I didnt belive her at first because i dont remember anything when i wake up but now she video tapes me at night when i act weird so im becoming worried about what might happen in the future and if i need help. If anyone has any type of information PLEASE let me know. I would rather stay away from the VA Hospital i get treated with no respect there.
http://www.leatherneck.com/forums/images/statusicon/user_online.gif

PTSD is a really tricky condition. I didnt know I had it until recently, and I got it validated by the VA. There are many things that factor in with PTSD, all of which can be found on numerous sources over the web.

The whole reason I found out I had PTSD is because I stumbled upon information about it over the web. I was reading up on it, and everything sounded like what I was experiencing. It was almost a relief, because I didnt know what the hell was wrong with me, but considering I had 2 combat tours as a grunt, I couldnt really imagine coming back the same person.

Use this link below and take the self-test:

http://panicdisorder.about.com/od/ptsdbasics/a/traumaquiz.htm

Go there and click on the "self test" link.



Honestly, brother, if you score high on that test, you might want to consider contacting the VA for help. Trust me, its not something to be taken lightly.

Hope this helps
Take care, brother

[sgt tony]

I would say to go see the doc and have them check you out. You do not have to be exposed more than 1 time to have PTSD some do and some don't.
JD site is a good self test. Try it and see how you do.
Why do you not want the VA? I know they are and can be a pain in the a@@ but they are the ones you really need to see. I know and have been where you are and it can get rough at times. Yes my wife said I did a lot of talking and action in my sleep. Don't let it get you down the sooner you get help the faster it will help.
Semper Fi Marine

[Dave Coup]

I suffered for years and didn't know what to do except self medicate ie booze. You can't go it alone. Get help, if not from the VA then somewhere, but get it.

Good Luck and Semper Fidelis

Dave

[egbutler1]

I'm rated 50% for PTSD by the VA and well i know that rating is wrong. I just took that test and answered YES to every question. It seems to only be getting worse. Booze i thought helped me out for a long time but now I understand that don't work. Well freakin' a lets hope I can communicate this with my Doc at the VA cause i have not been tellin him everything because of trust issues and the fact I really don’t like talking about it.

[sgt tony]

They DR can only treat your condition if you are not honest with what is going on with you. Weather you are 0% or 100% if you do not they can only do so much till they know it all. It is not easy but you have to do it for help.

[ttracker65]

You may also want to hit up your VSO and ell him your condition is progressing so tha he can up date your paper work and hopefully have you re-rated. It can not hurt it will not decrease but very well may increase. What ever you do don't give up on your self to many Brothers have already.

[egbutler1]

I have come to the point of giving up Marines, but I keep myself going for those who lost their lives and cannot be here today to state their problems. But its so frustrating that i sit here and think of all this crap everyday. I wasn't in any major battles that made the "news" like ramadi or anything just an ambush targeted at us that lasted for hours so i am always comparing myself to those Marines that fought in major battles in Iraq and it seems like i of all people shouldn’t have these problems if they dont. I just don't know.

[Jonny Destroyer]

I have come to the point of giving up Marines, but I keep myself going for those who lost their lives and cannot be here today to state their problems. But its so frustrating that i sit here and think of all this crap everyday. I wasn't in any major battles that made the "news" like ramadi or anything just an ambush targeted at us that lasted for hours so i am always comparing myself to those Marines that fought in major battles in Iraq and it seems like i of all people shouldn’t have these problems if they dont. I just don't know.

Hey brother, trust me, I know the feeling. I got diagnosed with PTSD, so I know what it feels like to just want to give up. But thats also one of the symptoms of it. Honestly, it doesnt matter if you were in Ramadi, Fallujah, or any other place on the map. It only takes one ambush, and that stuff can stick with you for life. Do it for yourself and get some help...there are so many programs out there for us now that some people werent fortunate enough to get from past wars, especially Vietnam. Take advantage of whats at your disposal. Cuz Im telling you right now, its only going to get worse if you dont seek professional help. It was eating away at me day by day, without me even realizing it. Do it for yourself, your family, and your fellow Marines. Because if you lead by example, others will follow. Others with the same problem will have the courage to get the help they need.

War is hell. And it never goes away. But theres no shame in seeking the help you need. I dont care what anyone says...no one comes back the same.

-CPL Maines

[byoung54]

You answered 16 questions out of 22 Yes.

Your score is 73%. You have experienced a trauma and now you are showing symptoms that are similar to those of post-traumatic stress disorder. Additionally, these symptoms are interfering in your normal, daily activities. It is important to talk to your doctor, a therapist, or other healthcare provider.

WTF no way its that high...

[Bulkyker]

I'll tell you from experience that there are many many among our brother Marines that are just a phone call away. Call and talk about the bloodlines of horses or the weather in Tennesse. Talk about fishing in Canada or your favorite make of shotgun. I'll tell ya calling up a Marine and cussing like a sailor and telling a dirty joke then just discussing the weather or if the corn is gonna be knee high on the 4th of July eases the pain.

[byoung54]

shieeet Sgt, thats why I coming back to the Corps a weekend warrior.

[sparkie]

Take care of yourself,,,, You are all you got. PM us for a chat, anytime, Brother.

[David Jameson]

Make an app.at the va and ask what they think.At least they will document your concerns.I have seen a lot off people (friends) that need time to settle down after getting out.Take advice you get off this sight.Pick it carefully .There are a few here that seems to think thier rate is wrong or not high enough.There are also a few that seem to think they won the lottery because they are Upset.Keep away from those.When you go to the Va tel them your concered (if you are) .

[David Jameson]

One more thing and this is kind of important for anyone cocerned.If YOU are concerned that you might have PTSD I would advise you to also consult a REG. doctor outside the VA .If the think you it. have thier opinion outside the VA carries a lot of wieght.Hope this helps.My DAD found out he had it years after Korea and is getting help.

[jobu121]

The VA told me I had PTSD, said I met the means test for it. I did try an outside therapist and he said I had it as well. Do I inform the VA Hospital? They want me on meds.

[FistFu68]

:evilgrin: BE CAREFULL WHAT YOU SAY,I KNOW MORE THAN 1 COMBAT VET.THAT WENT IN TALKING CHIT,TOO MAKE THEM THINK HE WAS CRAZY;WELL THEY RATED THESE GUY'S INCOMPETENT.WHEN QUESTIONED THINK BEFORE YOU SPEAK.EVERYTHING IS RECORDED,@WRITTEN DOWN.MY DOCTORS HAD ALREADY SEEN MY MILITARY RECORDS,BEFORE I WENT IN.LIKE WHAT UNIT,I WAS WITH,MY MOS.I USUALLY TELL THEM WHEN IT COMES TOO CLOSE TO HOME,THAT I DO NOT WANNA TALK ABOUT THAT.OH,AND WHEN THE DOCTOR GREETS YOU,AND SAY'S HELLO MR.JONES HOW ARE YOU 2DAY.SAY NOT TOO F-EN GOOD OR I WOULD NOT BE HERE.THEY ARE VERY SNEAKY,BEWARE MY MARINE BROTHER!!! S/F GODSPEED.:evilgrin::iwo:

[jobu121]

Thanks will do! I try not to say too much. I even watched this lame film they had.

[Phantom Blooper]

Call or go by the Vet Center in Dallas 10501 N. Central Expressway Suite 213 (214) 361-5896

They should be able to help you out and point you in the right direction. The Vet Centers are staffed by vets that have been there,done that and suffering. Good luck!:evilgrin:

[jobu121]

Phantom,

Thanks, will do. I am in contact with the Bonham VA Hospital to the North. I am trying to get a hold of the OIF person or something like that. Thanks again for the info, Semper Fi!

[2ndLAADBnWRENCH]

Brothers

I suffered for many years and still suffer from PTSD.. All our storys are simular yet so different. Being a Marine is a big part of the problem dealing with ptsd cause we are conditioned to deal with stuff and drive on. It took many years to finally get some help after I had ruined my life,a wife n kids and gawd knows how many girlfriends after she divorced me etc etc Not to mention the family I was raised with.. I went to a program in Denver Colo. VA Camp PTSD Dr. Larry Walburg was the director from the start of its conception some 10 plus years ago. I sure ain't cured by a damn site but much more educated and have a wife and step kids that love me and support my issues with my experiences as a professional for the Service of the United States... Please, use the system and get what you deserve and don't quit knockin on doors to get help.. Drop me or one of the oodles of brothers thats been there a call any time... I hope my 2 cents touched base?

Semper Fi

JB

[metalmsgt]

Some push through it and suffer for years.
Some bury the nightmares and insomnia in Booze or other drugs.

We're Marines we push through it and stand by our Brothers and fight to the death if needed with little regard for ourselves.
It's what we do.

I refused to accept the signs until things came to a head about a year and a half before I retired.

I was stationed in a schoolhouse as a Senior instructor with little to no stress and you would think I would be living large and have no reason to be upset about anything.

So why did my temper constantly flare at the drop of hat?
Why would I go off on my 12 yr old to the point of physically traumatizing him?

Why did I average 2 hrs of sleep a night no matter how tired I was?

The list goes on.

My life was unravel-ling and my career as a Top notch Marine was dwindling to a cranky old Dog struggling to keep from biting anybody who cared about me. It's hard to hold that stuff in.

I haven't drank since '92 and was sure contemplating a bottle of Quev.

I went to Mental health and asked for help.
They set me up in couseling and later started me on Meds.

I continued my Counseling and Meds through the VA after retirement
I hate the Pills and have to drive 50+ miles 1 way to get to my counseling each week.
My Bottom line advice is ask for help before things unravel on you. Get past the pride and take care of yourslf

The best way we can support the Corps and Our families is to take a look within and accept the help offered to us. You won't regret it.

The Chaos has calmed down some,

With out help I would pobablably be in jail or dead.

Get past the pride and anxiety and reach oiut. You won't forget it. my best you all.

[FistFu68]

:usmc: WELCOME HOME TOP YOU ARE NOT ALONE MARINE :usmc:

[DocGreek]

NNNNNAAAAAA! It'll go away, ALL BY ITSELF!! CRYSTAL METH, AND CRACK COKE.....DO WONDERS!! Add some MD 20/20, and you're GOOD TO GO......TO THE MORGUE!!! PTSD, is NOT some NEW PROBLEM!! READ about it, and the usual side affects, and how it's being treated....TODAY! "Know your Enemy, better than your friends....or yourself!!".......DOC

[Dave Coup]

Some push through it and suffer for years.
Some bury the nightmares and insomnia in Booze or other drugs.

We're Marines we push through it and stand by our Brothers and fight to the death if needed with little regard for ourselves.
It's what we do.

I refused to accept the signs until things came to a head about a year and a half before I retired.

I was stationed in a schoolhouse as a Senior instructor with little to no stress and you would think I would be living large and have no reason to be upset about anything.

So why did my temper constantly flare at the drop of hat?
Why would I go off on my 12 yr old to the point of physically traumatizing him?

Why did I average 2 hrs of sleep a night no matter how tired I was?

The list goes on.

My life was unravel-ling and my career as a Top notch Marine was dwindling to a cranky old Dog struggling to keep from biting anybody who cared about me. It's hard to hold that stuff in.

I haven't drank since '92 and was sure contemplating a bottle of Quev.

I went to Mental health and asked for help.
They set me up in couseling and later started me on Meds.

I continued my Counseling and Meds through the VA after retirement
I hate the Pills and have to drive 50+ miles 1 way to get to my counseling each week.
My Bottom line advice is ask for help before things unravel on you. Get past the pride and take care of yourslf

The best way we can support the Corps and Our families is to take a look within and accept the help offered to us. You won't regret it.

The Chaos has calmed down some,

With out help I would pobablably be in jail or dead.

Get past the pride and anxiety and reach oiut. You won't forget it. my best you all.
Welcome home Top

Semper Fidelis

Dave

[metalmsgt]

Docgreek, Thanks for the PM
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_7XB4YkTq0gE/RzouYf5PryI/AAAAAAAAA7w/UUXfNvLQ9GQ/s400/Dept.%2Bof%2Bthe%2BNavy%2BEmblem.jpg and Thank you Lord for Our Beloved US Navy Corpsman ever listening for that dreaded call.

My first encounter with PTSD

Years ago I sat and had some beers with a friend of my sister who had been a Door Gunner on a Huey gunship flying ops in the northern provinces of Vietnam. He had had quite a few beers and he began to tell us some of his experience. We listened amazed, sickened, frightened, awestuck of the things he told. I watched him go through the gamete of emotions from crying to anger for about for about an hour and a Half. At the time I couldn't imagine why he held on to all that stuff. As if it were his choice. I also said to myself that I never wanted to be like that. Not that Tom was a bad guy, he was a good man. But he had a dark secretive side to him that seemed to drive away wives and friends at a cyclic rate, except for his buddys in the American Legion. We couldn't understand. That was about 20 years and a couple of wars ago. I don't know where Tom is today but I hope he has found some peace from his war.
We come home and they say the war is over, for some it has just started.

Thanks for reaching out Brothers.
Good to be here. :)

[GravityRain]

Reluctance.......You chose to become a marine, whatever you must bear because of it, bear it. You really are a target, they really are watching you, there really is a threat lurking just past perception, be ready when it manifests, or let someone give you dope to surpress your reflexes, training, and conditioned responses. Think about it. There is a war coming for civilians. Be alert. You might make it. Or. you might fade comfortably away....and everthing you believe in or thought you did. Any Marine that didnt suffer from PTSD after a righteous tour of duty, I 'd have to ask, what the ****s wrong with you.