My Story - "Bob"

From a 60 year old veteran of the Viet-nam war.

Wanted to touch base with you about PTSD. I've been running at about 8 charting anxiety, with 10 the worse, since about Saturday. This isn't unusual. Of course there are other manifestations as well that causes me grief. After thinking the way I do, I must realize that without medical help from 1968 till Dec 2005, I have suffered a long time and it isn't easy turning the thoughts around.

The longer one goes without treatment the less likely it is to see much improvement very soon. I'm fighting it but not expecting more of myself than I could deliver. Had a terrible night last night, frightening nightmares, just like I was back in the nam. I'm not seeking pity and don't want any pity. No, that's not why I mention this. I'd like your prayers on this. I attend group counseling once a week and am able to get in for help when I need to. I'm happy with the way the ones from the VA clinic here are helping me with PTSD, especially there teaching me sound facts and telling me repetitiously to practice what I've been taught.

I'm not ashamed of having PTSD, and I am not afraid to point out where I think someone is trying to distance themselves from those with PTSD, by name calling such as referring to PTSD sufferers as "mental cases" and the like. I am angered and hurt by those that would act and talk as if those with PTSD are a shameful lot unless they meet some imagined standard of performance.

There is something else. There is a group around here that is doing research to find ways to reach veterans with PTSD while at the same time educate the public that is very poorly informed about PTSD. The name calling, superstition and predjudice, and placing shame on those with PTSD expecting them to just forget PTSD and act right (what the h*** is that?) is some of the problems that keep some from coming forward for help, in my opinion.

If you would have some ideas, nothing long, about what you think would be a help without a lot of detail, please let it be known. But if you want, you are welcomed to say what you want.

I will not be contributing a lot to this as it will exacerbate my problem. These that I have copied are some of the ones working on the project here. I hope you will keep me in the loop with your thoughts. Thanks in advance Marine, biker, and brother.

The prayers too, are most important. Both on behalf of the cause and on my behalf. I am tired of fighting.

Ride safe and stay safe. God bless and keep you always.

Semper Fi
Bob

Posted August 3rd, 2008 - Webmaster