Started Group

[catman]

John...could not begin to list all the ways you have helped me over the years! The door is always open brother!

Trav

[MORTARDUDE]

Trav :

Good for you !! I am here if you need to talk.

Larry

[Andy]

While I was working had occasion to investigate no less than 25 suicides, specifically suicides of veterans. Each of those men fit the same profile. They all did an impersonation of Gary Cooper - strong silent type, never talked about whichever war it was that they attended. The brain can be like a pressure cooker, we all need a release.

If you ever thought you might benefit from one on one or group, then there?s no doubt you will benefit. Personally, I?ve never gone to group but never went to the VA hospital without seeing someone I?ve met "professionally".

Trav, like Paco said when we first got home we got ragged on in a most nasty fashion by WWII and Korea vets. It?s just being the FNG all over again. Plus, most of the people doing the ragging were not necessarily, ?active participants? in their war.

Bottom line, you have a fractured bone you go to a doctor to fix it. You have stressors you see another kind of specialist. And, you have my phone number.

Stay healthy in all ways,
Andy

[Boats]

Bob - there is some truth in the words stating your hell is on earth. In war or out of war there are many terrible things that many have seen that make you sit up at night sometimes in a cold sweat. I've had this happen just the other day. Woke up yelling and my wife went nuts saying you gotta get this under control or sleep outside.

It just pops in every now and then and I can't sleep no more that night cause I don't want and reruns. Talking about it doesn't help in all cases. Changing the subject thinking about family or other things or just staying busy doesn't allow these issues to take hold.

I also move away from those who reflect on issues relating to such memories only because it triggers a reaction of which I can't control.

[LRP1]

Catman.....glad you decided to try again...Just remember one thing......YOU will not find a cure for PTSD ..However, you will be provided with the tools required to live a quasi-normal life in your everyday activities.....Don't dissapoint yourself....using these tools will be hard for you but well worth it......Thank You for Your Service Brother

Cal

[exlrrp]

I have been in several different types of groups in my day for different reasons and I got something from all of them.
Yogi Berra said: You can learn a lot by watching. To which I might add also: listening. Its my experience that you get about as much out as you put in.
I was in a Vet Center group for about a year. There was 6 of us. It was intersting to see others who had some of the same problems I do and how they wer handling it. Found out I wasn't doing so bad--I had a job, watch, good clothes, a car. Like they say about AA/NA: the trick is its all done with mirrors. (they used to say smoke and mirrors but can't smoke in AA any more)
A group can be great for getting other peoples opinion of oneself in a n0o threatening way--this can be invaluable. Ask others when you get to know them: What was you first impression of me when we met? The answer to that can be very very valuable.
I find the group here to be very therapeutic, Ive gone over my war experience more here than any other place.
Good Luck, dude, stay good
James

In the beginning I too had trouble with groups. They were forcing me to face issues I was not willing to face. Eventually it paid off though. Was able to dump a lot of the sh*t I was carrying.

[urbsdad6]

Catman,

A war is a war no matter how big or small and the effect is permanent and not imagined. Glad you are in a group that has some experience and time. They will be a valuable and positive influence and help.

Be Well,

Doc Urb

[LRP1]

exlrrp

James , what is the LRPs' name here in AR you told me about? I have slept since then and can't find my notes.

Cal

[catman]

Again...thanks to you all for the words of encouragement. Am still attending and find myself looking forward to it.

Trav