Recognizing signs of PTSD and TBI 

Am Iraq and Afghanistan veteran am still fighting the war within. Dealing with a civilian life at times is differcult.

Wow this fellow soldier is speaking to me and the struggles I deal with everyday.

I just got diagnosed with PTSD and TBI from Iraq and Afghanistan. It’s scary this guy is literally speaking my day to day life.

Thank you for sharing this video! It helps me to understand more. My brother was in the Army in Iraq. He had the same illness. He ended up taking his own life. I always do my rosary prayers and St Anthony of Padua novena prayers for of you military men and women that God help you especially your loved be able to help. My heart goes out to all of you! May God bless you all!

This young man reminds of my own son, there are no ward to express to help them. May God help you to a total recovery.

The best explanation to what I'm feeling I've heard since I was forced to get help by the National Guard. I lost my mother while on duty about 20 months ago. My new unit had enough of the things I was doing but was unaware of or at least I though I was ok. (Thank you so much for having the courage to speak) I feel like submitting to my authorities may have kept me from hurting myself/life in one way or another.

I have the same diagnosis and I’m only 40 seconds in and already tearing up. Bless our troops.

Man, PTSD and TBI sucks. I served active for ten years. Hadn't slept since Iraq in 2003 till this year 2017. Just layed there, always on guard. Never got help until I got out in 2014 on a med board. I cut ties with family and old friends. They tended to judge me instead of just let me be, or so I projected. Really I looked like shit and looked totally deppresed and freaked out all the time. I've seen pics from before so I understand their concern now. But I learned through CPT therapy that I tended to think negatively and self preserve instead of thinking about the big picture. I didn't want to leave the house or trust anyone. Seeing what humans can ultimately do to each other in a war zone has everlasting effects but if you don't sleep or try to understand it and let the things we can't change just comfortably be, you'll end up in a vicious cycle. I use to engage into other's trauma and problems to mask my own. Thought I was trying to help them but most people aren't willing to get help and you end up sabotaging a relationship. Cause when attacked I attacked back. I don't feel attacked now. I sleep thanks to Nefazadone and eating healthy. No projecting or waiting for a fight. I'm still isolated a bit but I'm crawling out of my hole. Archery us new to me and I've been addicted to it. It gets me outside in the sun and interacting with others.

I know it's probably not a good idea, but I'd love to give this man a hug. I truly hope you get better

Thanks mate for your service your a Hero!😊

Not been to war, but have complex ptsd. And I can totally relate. It’s an everyday struggle. Be strong.

He speaks what took me years to realize. 16 years after my first deployment to Iraq in 2003, i made an attempt on my life. I didn't leave the military until 2007 with a second deployment on my chest. I never sought help while in the military. I saw it as a weakness. I thought that it could keep me from getting promoted, or being selected for special schools and training. Year's after being out of the military, is when i made a claim at the VA. Which then was denied, and not long after that i woke up in the hospital mad at myself because i wasn't dead. It's 2024 now, i still have the same issues, some stagnant and some worse. I've found the courage and strength again to contact the VA again. It's exceptionally hard taking care of VA business here in Germany where i live. Time zones, German doctors etc... I will see it through though. Can't be worse than a 20k march in the sand with a full load😅

I was in for 14 years, and been out for 5 years, I’m still adjusting.

I had PTSD but I'm thinking forward, and I belive that the positive changes in my routine and mental state are having an effect... I still have memory issues... and what I do wanna learn or retain is hard too keep.

As a recovered alcoholic who faced 20 years of relapse & horrific consequences , I am amazed that professionals refuse to consider life altering diseases like alcoholism to produce PTSD symptoms. Because Although I've been sober 4 years, I still have no emotions, I have next to no interest in social activities, I do experience strong emotions while dreaming .. which is a symptom of PTSD ... and by that alcoholic trauma I mean for example, black out drinking and waking up in jails, the Trauma of losing jobs and apartments leading to homeless shelters , the loss of reputation, of a career , of your self .. maybe it's not fashionable talking about severe addictions in terms of PTSD, but I think the facts do bear out that survivors of addictive diseases experience these symptoms. & the fact that professionals and "12 step" groups don'tt even mention this possibility does a great disservice to those who continue to suffer even after they've had their last drink or drug

Its Good ppl pointed this out to him and he went to go get help for it! Like minded ppl understand eachother. They understand the things you've gone through and can help you better. Thanks for sharing your story!

My dad was a soldier during the civil war in El Salvador. Whenever we were eating, he would finish his food so fast, like if he was rushed. I asked him why he was always eating so fast, but he didn't say anything. My mom later told me that during the war they only had like 1 or 2 minutes to eat or they won't be able to eat since they would get attacked. 😞 I always try to talk to him, so he can slow down, but it stayed with him.

Hello thartman123, Thank you for writing and for your service. Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is most often known as a concussion, although some TBIs can be much more serious. Depending on the individual’s experience, TBI can cause changes in a person’s ability to think, control emotions, walk, or speak, and can also affect sense of sight or hearing.

I'm so sorry I can relate I have ptsd cptsd anxiety and severe anger and hypervigilence from a war that was not like yours exactly but I still understand it. I am a survivor of domestic violence and I totally get it. All of it. God bless you and thank you sir. My dad served and also was in Vietnam War. When around him I feel "safe & home" and understood. Thank you so much💜🙏🏼

Thank you to all the veterans who served in combat...You offered up your peace of mind to serve your country. I personally feel your gift was and is being exploited by politicians in ivory towers who can't hold a candle to the bravery and honor you have shown. Your all heroes

I thought I only had bad depressions...on my way up, doing all I can. Thank you for your testimony, wishing you all the best for the future! Take care. (A French woman who did not go to war zones)

You seem like a really nice guy - hope things are going well for you. - Australia.

That is a great journey. Congratulations and thanks for showing it can be done.

Much respect!! I definitely can relate…from hearing this story, I guess I definitely have this issue, but I haven’t been blasted that many times. Also can relate to the portion where he speaks about not fitting in, the adjustments on coming back home etc

I am an avid #MentalHealthAwareness advocate and performer, and I love this so much. I travel the country trying to bring that awareness on stages, in classrooms, hospitals, and on my RU-vid channel, so I get excited when I see other advocates. 💙❤

Wow! I have some friends that went through combat. They shared their stories with me..and I have learned alot. but I have learned 59th become more appriciative of out Veterans.Thank you for your service guys. Love you all

I enjoyed the this very much. I have CPTSD and TBI. 2 huge things.

Letting go is not easy. Thank you for sharing. Stay strong man

Your words have the more wise meaning to me. You learn every day. thank you. ✌

For anyone that is struggling right now, there are inpatient programs that the VA can help you get into for PTSD and substance abuse. It’s 100 percent free to get into for veterans. For example there is a PTSD rehabilitation center in Batavia, NY. You are not alone ❤️

I love you brother...be well. YOU DESERVE a good like, man!

TBI and PTSD never leaves you... we are all messed up trying to rejoin Civilian life

Thank you for sharing GOD BLESS you thank you for all you went through.

Thank you for this. I have ABI and PTSD from an operation in hospital. This subject needs to be more widely known about.

bless u guys and thank u great souljas in active duty and ones that are home amen to my protecters of usa

You seem like a nice guy. I'm sorry you had to go through all this.

Thank you all for your service and as life continues know you are not alone ... Researching has taught me so much and I'm willing to learn all it takes to be the friend and loving partner my man needs , been dating over a year and I know it's going to take time , the problem is with all the new ways of modern dating more emphasis is put on negative aspects like bread crumbs gas lighting etc creates the false narrative of what dating truthfully is with PTSD in vets who have been in combat, going with my instinct and having the faith and trust and patience I knew deep down there was more to him and I'm grateful to have the knowledge thankyou all for sharing your stories so that others understand

Thank you for your service, and I thank your family for their own sacrifice for you to serve. PTSD is a constant battle with ourselves

Excellent commentary. Good to show that there are different levels of TBI & PTSD. And with the help of battle buddies that he could still use some help with reintegration into the civilian life.

When I first got diagnosed I struggled too accept it but once I did it started to help me recover.

Thank you!

20 yrs.Navy, 14 Rescue Squad and Fire Department. Wrecked/Rollover a Fire Truck in Coma 7 Weeks Slow Starting But Steady Running Country Boy

Was told I have a TBI in 2005 (by a neurologist) from the war, my c&p doctor (general practitioner) told me that PTSD and tbi have similar symptoms and denied my claim. Now 13 years later my doctor is getting me tested for TBI again. I just wish I was normal, but hopefully I can get treatment or figure out what's going on.

Everything is about the mission. Everything is life or death. Always waiting for what can happen. Everyone is suspect. Still don’t like being around too many civilians. Va and group helps you to cope.

Same with me. I can't be more grateful to my friend Joe who pointed out that I have that.

This is what a hero looks/acts like !

Wonderful man sharing his honest feelings.

Why is it after 10 years of being home we forget what veterans go through... Don't ever give up on a fellow brothrr

Not in military. But I’ve had lots of head trauma. And c PTSD. I’m so sorry for our warriors coming back home. At least they were fighting for our country

Solid. Thank you brother.

Thanks for sharing.

That was a great. You go Schuyler (sp?)! My wife in a behavioral therapist, though she specializes in treating children from traumatic backgrounds, it's about the same thing, with a different clientele. But seriously, good job, Brother. Nice going.

Route Clearance, Afghan 2011. I was blown up 3 times and exposed to many more explosions. PTSD and TBI, let’s talk. I deal. I struggle. We Vets can overcome.

great looking guy. wish you all the best.

My husband is going through some mental health issues, but the bad thing is that he doesn't admit that he needs help and refuses to get help. Many people don't speak about the struggles that we as wives go through as well. It is very hard, and overwhelming.

God bless and your family

Thank you… you have beautiful spiritual Christmas Story for Americans who so love our military…please share…you are such a great inspiration!!! Slk ❤🎉😅

Thank you for the response. I was not aware of it until now. He is on PTSD disability (partial), but no eval or treatment for TBI. Is the recommendation still the same? Thanks again.

My son is going through complex PTSD from the 2020 riots in Chicago against the police. I love that the VA offers so many resources to Vets; but I struggle trying to find similar resources for 1st responders. Mental health is so stigmatized in the Police environment and there are no resources offered or encouraged. While experiences are similar to that of vets, the VA doesn't extend their resources to first responders. It breaks my heart to watch him struggle daily. God Bless our Troops and ALL 1st Responders that put their life's on the line daily to keep America safe from threats outside and within our country.

I truly understand these men

So I have a question, I feel like my time in the service was Kindergarten compared to my time after service as a PMC. I did one deployment as military then almost a decade as a PMC. The vast majority of the trauma I suffered. The intense combat, IDF, IEDs, and being exposed to significant, blasts ( talking about structures I was in being blown up and hearing people say I was dead as I was tying to find my way out of the wreckage as rockets and mortars are still going off around me) happened while I was a contractor, now I am a Federal CIV and I would love to figure out where and how I am supposed to figure this shit out? Does anyone have an idea on where I should start. I have been home for 7 years I get brought back to day zero very easily. I spent 10 years in active combat zones and it seems like there is nothing out there for me because all the real shit that happened, happened when I became a contractor after my first deployment?

I am a (female) civilian. I was in Israel during the Second Intifada where buses would constantly get blown up, plus lots of terror attacks. I never saw an attack, but I heard the explosions & gun shots and a friend of mine was killed. I also worked at a dangerous location. I eventually moved to Canada and suffered from ptsd, I got no help. One interesting symptom that I noticed is that I missed the explosions. I also needed bad things to happen, in order to calm down. The reason for that is that every time after a terror attack, there is a period of calm. Once I was on a train and it hit a truck, that made me feel great. (obviously rationally I knew this is wrong and I felt bad for the truck drivers) Its as if the terror attack just happened and now I am safe for a few days. I met a young woman in Jerusalem who had the same symptom. A terrorist shot people in the store where she worked, (she was inside the store when it happened) so everyday she waited, she wanted him to enter the store and shoot, to get it over with, so she can feel safe. I don't know if only civilians get these type of symptoms or also soldiers. I wish therapists would talk about this.

Hello, MsDragonegg, Thank you for writing. Whether you are a Veteran or not, it is common to have reactions such as upsetting memories, increased jumpiness, or trouble sleeping after a serious accident, disaster, assault or other trauma. If these reactions do not go away or get worse, you may have posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Learn more about this condition and the treatments available, including where to get help for PTSD: www.ptsd.va.gov/PTSD/public/PTSD-overview/basics/index.asp Discover how you can deal with PTSD symptoms: www.ptsd.va.gov/PTSD/public/treatment/cope/index.asp If you have an iPhone or Android smartphone, you may also want to download the free PTSD Coach app: www.ptsd.va.gov/PTSD/public/treatment/therapy-med/index.asp Spread the word about the PTSD resources available: www.ptsd.va.gov/PTSD/about/press-room/Materials_for_Printing.asp

thank you , helpful

In 2011 I Talked to VA about taking a IED hit twice ( Christmas day is ruiened) and being the dude who shot 2 AT4's in combat, plus going red on .50 cal, M240B, and M249 in TIC. Never will I admit I was scared as hell, but that is what they want to hear

I worked for the army for 8 years I'm from Iraq , i was the the BN S2 linguist/ combat translator / special missions interpreter​ , after i settled in the U.S few months later in civilian life i start to fell different i was diagnosed with ptsd , i start to have flash backs nightmares anxiety and spicing out like there is no end sometimes the flash back is so strong that make me sleepy and tired , i can not sleep like other normal people for some reason i can not sleep at bed i feel more convertible to sleep in my car i think this because i spent most of the 8 years in the Humvees . now this is the bad part no one helping me , my wife can not understand what im having , no help from anyone , and the strangest thing that i can not understand that i feel i will feel better if i go work in the warzone , i don't get it all my flash backs and nightmares are about the missions i did in the past but yet i feel i will be better if i do the missions again. I'm confused , i don't know what to do .

Hey your story matters...you are way strong I have severe tbi...the hyper vigilance The constant tension frustration and adrenaline dump..the heavy coat that's so tight I can hardly breathe.. in the dark maze that continually changes...the fear the anger Is how I fall....my mind gets erased every night...so I start over again...and cycle repeats..and all I needed is the one thing I can't find...I'm like you..go hard or go home I will try to send you A link to an interview About me

Thank You All!

I was in for 6 years and as a 75th Ranger, everything he is saying is true I fight with this everyday

I was diagnosed with PTSD in 2004 after my first Iraq deployment. Instead of telling me I had it and treating me for it, they instead sent me on a second deployment to Iraq which made it worse.

Thankyou this helped me

This video really helped

I am unsure what to say here... But I want to start off by saying thank all of you for your service to our country... I live with my boyfriend who suffers from PTSD and it is hard cause he won't tell me what's going on in his mind... He zones out and I have to ask him several times if he heard what I said before he comes back and says no... He has night sweats and he nightmares and he gets up several times in a matter of hours and just paces our floors... from one room to the other... Well will be watching a movie and his legs bounce to the point I have to reach over and just touch them and tell him 5 seconds please... He has flashbacks and everyone says those don't happen but I know I have been trapped and couldn't move cause it wasn't him... He thinks it's a sign of weakness and I try to convince him it's not... He is great with our children and great to me... But I just don't know what else to do... whenever we are in our house it has to be locked cause he thinks someone is going to invade our house... I have gotten rid of firearms... But I know it's hard on men and women of the military but it's hard being the husband or wife of someone that suffers from it as well...

Honestly working the first step with sponsor process can take longer than others, thats okay. no worries, good job

Where do I sign to start the process,

Thanks, This helps understanding these folk as a civilian, I have come across PTSD in some co-workers that were in the military, and the scenario he described about being late to a movie and blowing up I've seen all too well and he's right it does alienate you; many people don't want to deal with it or are mentally unstable themselves lol. I just say my peace and then they take the rest of the day off then next day its like it didn't happen. My only question in understanding is why not just stay in military for life, make it a career become an officer and use the GI bill if you were enlisted etc etc. You're already conditioned to be a weapon and de-sensitized. Why do these people go back to civilian world? If I enlisted I would never come out. If unable to be field ready there has to be other office based jobs in bases or elsewhere, hire them up and continue with the ranking and treatment etc. etc. if they come down with alcohol or drug problems rehab them instead of kicking them out etc etc open up bases with everything you need let them observe rank in their workplace and yell at each other when needed and support each other. I think working and living with others with PTSD will help them with their own as they see the triggers in their un triggered state

It's hard for me also I got a terrible TBI from the blast of an airbag in a car wreck I was in when I was 3 years old! PTSD and TBI's are both a very terrible thing!! I don't have PTSD but I do have a TBI and now I have struggles in my life!! >physically

My dad was in Vietnam . At that time there was not the help through VA,that is available presently. Its a free choice you can utilize those tools and overcome. Or continue on a path of self destruction.

I was diagnosed for PTSD n sucks because you battling constantly. I have meds daily to manage my symptoms. I might have TBI as well. VA is wonderful place for veterans. Take care....

My boyfriend played football and boxed in the Navy on a destroyer for the entertainment of troops. Then when he switched to Army, he was in a jeep wreck which almost took off his nose. He got no treatment other than aspirin. The incoming was horrendous in Vietnam, and rattled his brain then. I have told him I think he has TBI, but the VA just tested his reflexes asked him some memory questions (which he failed) and said goodbye. He is feeling hopeless lately. What do you do???

This is such a great video! May I share it on my Instagram page?

Great respect for all soldiers who fight PTSD ❗ #Therapy #Support #Protect #Health #Life #Family #Future🟢 #Respect #Kind 🕊️ BOWS for Elite ⭐

Trying hard to love this now, mean and angry Vet of mine...

Ur very strong! As a suffering lady ptsd I can say that, but your mood is not stable, you can be a winner! Treat yourself it’s not your fault You know guys , I was born in Israel We have terror experiences and still it’s not group specific for ptsd! I wish you found in the stAtes and I will love to join

I think help from VA has changed & not as approachable in Houston. My son needs help but he is not comfortable talking to the pet in the VA. Any advice?

I got hit in the face with a howitzer breach due to a hang fire while over seas. Since getting off active duty and transitioning into the guard...im starting to notice things that are different about me

I flew dust off's in Beirut during Marg 24 in 1982-3. I experienced blow ups three times. I got out in 85 and struggled alot for about five years. Sudden loud noises, or my kids pointing toy guns or fireworks, they all brought on some troubles for me. I get hyper ventilated and the shakes. Just today I went to my son's house for a first communion for his kid. There were some rowdy kids shooting nerf guns in the house, but I was aware of this, which is like my safety so I was okay. I just put up with it. Still I was uncomfortable and was getting ready to leave when my older son rounded the corner with a nerf rifle and began firing it at the kids in the next room right beside me. This caught me way off guard and my safety failed. Even though there were several people around me in the same room, nobody saw me begin to lose my breath. I was for the first time in several years having an attack. My chest tightened up and I felt like glass was exploding in my face. I left telling my younger son that I was experiencing a situation, My youngest son understands my condition. I called my counselor, but he was not able to answer me, so I called a trusted friend who talked with me for a while and calmed me down. This was just a few hours ago. I feel better now, but the idea that I was cured is gone. I am not cured and never will be. I am 65 now. This never ends for me. I know this is a long read and most people will skip it but it helps me to write it down. It's just like I'm saddled with this for life and my own kid doesn't stop to think, hey maybe I shouldn't do this around dad. I know he meant no harm, but SOB!!! What do I have to do? Should I wear a MF'ing sign around my neck? Like I said it's been just a few hours ago. Did anyone miss me all of a sudden? My phone has not rung. I am home now and okay. I don't want to tell my kid he freaked me out. It's his house. He didn't mean any harm. SFPS!

i really want to know he is going now on 2020?

My attorney sent me a john boy letter not realizing the damaged he created. The letter triggered an emotional upset. When I read the letter I was traumatized. Extreme physical tremors, confusion and disorientation. I felt like he personal and deliberately wanted to pain me. Stop pain of abuse

Thank you for this. Thank you for your service. My son was a victim in a school shooting and I was looking up PTSD symptoms and this video popped up.

Only a trained, medical professional can diagnose traumatic brain injury; however, our website does explain many of the treatment options and resources that are available: maketheconnection (dot) net /conditions/traumatic-brain-injury. It is never too late to seek treatment. Find resources near you to help: maketheconnection (dot) net /resources/

I got told I had ptsd from years when I was 16 years old I had a close friend get half his head blown off not to far away from til this day I see it in my dreams I will wake up cant go back to sleep this is no joke it's like I'm soulless I cant focus I recently got put on anxiety meds after years from the event til this day it haunts me

I know that feeling way too well

I served in Iraq from 2006-07 with the 1st calvary division. I was a recovery specialist. I have struggled with Alcoholism and drug abuse for years afterwards. I have been sober now for about 3yrs. But lately I feel like I don't matter and I feel constantly angry. My wife feels like it's her job to " fix" me and it's not. I've dealt with the va for years and lately everything pisses me off

Just have lots of Patience

I have nightmares frequently about war, battle, one being last night but I've never been in the service. Over the past few years I havent been able to keep a full time job. I'm a good worker, multi tasker but not able to make it everyday. Nerves wear me out and leave me fatigue and have recently hit the wall. PTSD only made sense to me as soldiers explain their experiences and how it effects daily life. This stuff is weird!

It’s hard to watch this . I got in at 17 and stayed in til 39. I’m in law school with kids, and older than some professors. I’m so fucking lost. All I know is Military, and I’m fucking lost. You get hazed in L School, and I takes all I have to not rip into the young professors that never spent a day in the service.

I enjoy this and praying for your help to work and hate this for you God Bless you .May you be blessed in Jesus Name .Thank You

I have a friend who is wonderful yet there r times he is like a total stranger. He served 10 years in the US Navy. One day we r laughing & reminiscing the next day or so, he is short, rude & refusing to talk @ all. Help!! I don’t pry or push I simply am walking on eggshells. How can I help??

Hello, Thank you for writing. If you have PTSD, it doesn’t mean you just have to live with it.Many Veterans have gotten treatment for PTSD-and treatment works. Our website explains many of the resources available: w w w{dot}MakeTheConnection{dot}net / Conditions / PTSD You can also use this confidential PTSD self-assessment: w w w{dot}MakeTheConnection{dot}net / Resources / Self-Assessments It’s never too late to find resources near you to help: w w w{dot}MakeTheConnection{dot}net / Resources