Advice on Depression/Anxiety?

2018-10-17T06:14:56-04:00

I use rally point for a lot of questions I have in the military, I find it very Informative. The only reason I made an account on here tho is to get some opinions on my particular situation just like every one else. I have delt with depression and anxiety for a little bit over a year now. Very few people know about this so posting it on here is a big deal for me. I get little to no sleep at night. Sometimes depression hits and it’s smothering, to the point I’ll hit my bed and feel like I can’t move for hours. I’m not talking about watching Netflix or playing on my phone either. I get in a very heavy populated area like Walmart or any other place sometimes I start “freaking out” in my head of course I wouldn’t pop off on any one I know it’s just in my head. There are more symptoms but for the sake of reading this long post I’ll get on with it. I have ignored it for over a year but I’ve finally come to terms I need to be looked at. It’s a very poor time to do though because I just got to my new unit I know I should have solved it before I PCS’d but it’s to late to worry about that. They are putting me in a flight company, that’s where I have spent my entire military career. I’m thinking I need to request a maintenance company because they have more steady hours and start being seen. I just don’t want to be a strain on my unit or disappoint my higher up. Any advice is greatly appreciated

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 17 at 2018 12:20 PM

2018-10-17T12:20:31-04:00

First and foremost, you have admittedly taken a very large step in addressing your medical situation with us. Couple with the fact that you recognize you have a medical situation that warrants treatment. You have achieved what MANY people cannot. Serious KUDOS to you just for that. Now, on to the issue at hand. Naturally, I highly recommend you get an evaluation and treatment. Depression and anxiety is nothing to play around with. I know. When in Iraq, I started having issues and I went to the COSC on base to be evaluated. I was diagnosed with Acute Anxiety Stress. The doctor I spoke with stated that my case is something that could be easily managed if I followed some practices/guidelines to help me and would probably not require scheduled therapy visits as long as I kept to those recommendations. What was recommended and worked for me was writing a daily journal about everything that happened during that day, good or bad. She stated that when writing it, not only are you venting your feelings and thoughts, but it would also possibly help you see the situation(s) from a different angle. Another recommendation was to pump iron. Naturally, when frustrated, go pump some bars and work that frustration out. Another exercise was, believe it or not, LEGOs. At first I didn't believe it until I did a little research. Turns out there are articles out that that talk about how many Vets with PTS are turning to LEGOs for therapy as it gives a task, a focus, a goal, and helps relieve frustration and anxiety. Video games is another avenue that one can look at.

While I know everyone is different, I also understand that not everyone can utilize the same treatment program. My advice: See out a doctor on base (or off base if you prefer) and get treatment. I would also recommend that you speak with your Chain as soon as you can and express your concerns. Identify the problem to them and also provide a solution. As for straining your unit, all I can say is that every unit faces strain with manpower, but workarounds always happen. And if your higher ups are disappointed in you, then your higher ups are POSs that aren't practicing what they preach in regards to ensuring their Soldiers have access to the help they need.

Or, if simply boils down to you needing someone to vent to, you can easily email me with all your frustrations and concerns. I will gladly lend that ear that you need. Because at the end of the day, we all need someone that will not just hear us, but to also LISTEN to us. If you need, I will be there to LISTEN.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 17 at 2018 1:52 PM

2018-10-17T13:52:29-04:00

I've spent most of my aviation career in a flight company. Flying has been one of the few things that I've been able to use to keep myself out of getting into those depressive or anxious ruts. My head could have me being a complete slug on a given day and then it's time to load up and fly and I get a rocket in my backside. It gives me something to focus on other than the things swirling around in my brain. You've got 2 or 3 other people and a multimillion dollar aircraft that you're responsible for, so there's no time to listen to whatever nonsense your brain is trying to trick you into thinking about.

I got moved to a maintenance company in February because the flight company I was in was deploying but I had a temporary profile so I couldn't go. My first couple months there were horrible because all I could think about was that I had let my other company down and I had lost the one thing that I could say with 100% certainty I enjoyed doing and kept me centered. It took me a couple months to realize that I was an important part of the equation where I had ended up. There were only a couple of us NCOs that the guys had anything remotely resembling trust in. When I saw that, I had to flip a switch. Someone had to lead and take care of those juniors.

You need to do what's best for you in the end. Regardless of which way you decide to go, bear in mind that you're going to have responsibilities. Don't worry about letting the people above you down. Worry about the people below you. If you do that, the people above you will see that and take note.

Also, decide what being a crew chief means to you. A lot of medications will get you grounded, sometimes permanently depending on what they are. DO NOT let that deter you from at least talking to someone if you feel like you need to. Sometimes just talking to a counselor or something can do a world of good.

Response by SGT Tony Clifford made Oct 17 at 2018 2:12 PM

2018-10-17T14:12:48-04:00

I think that you should consider that your mental health is an absolute necessity. I would look into different types of therapy options available for you. You should also consider talking to your supervisor about your situation. Not a single leader worth a damn, would be antagonistic to a soldier needing help. They will generally be glad that you came to them for help, before your issues started effecting your work and health. If you're uncomfortable with this, the chaplain can be of great help in assisting you with getting connected with mental health professionals. Obviously, your aid station can also provide you with information that might help. I don't think that you should be concerned about doing this shortly after PCSing. Your mental health comes first. I hope this helps things.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Oct 17 at 2018 3:12 PM

2018-10-17T15:12:07-04:00

You are fighting a culture where we are taught to never quit and persevere. In my opinion you have suffered long and hard enough to ask for help. Your mental and physical health are paramount to you. Take that leap and get help. Dispel any thought that you are at fault, shit happens in life.

Response by SrA John Monette made Oct 17 at 2018 3:43 PM

2018-10-17T15:43:40-04:00

you have to take care of yourself first. if that means requesting an assignment with steadier hours, so be it. I think you have made a very courageous first step by admitting that you suffer from depression and anxiety. these illnesses are not going to solve themselves. most people need some type of professional assistance to deal with them. do the most courageous thing you can and seek the assistance you already admit you need. feel free to reach out to me if you need to vent or seek other advice. you will be in my thoughts and prayers

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Oct 17 at 2018 11:35 PM

2018-10-17T23:35:54-04:00

Keep your head up and get help, you don't need to be one of the 22 per day. You can't solve it, but you can learn to live with it and function with it- I waited some 10 yrs after I retired and that cost me a marriage, and alienated most of my family.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 17 at 2018 11:44 PM

2018-10-17T23:44:37-04:00

Just a update guys thanks for all the advice I scheduled a meeting with behavioral health tomorrow so I’m going to start there and see what they say again thank you all for showing me a couple different angles to think about this

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Oct 18 at 2018 4:03 PM

2018-10-18T16:03:00-04:00

I know what you are going through. I had depression, anxiety, racing thoughts, inability to sleep well, and had butterflies in my stomach. I finally asked for help.

Response by PV2 Jeffrey Peters made May 8 at 2019 10:23 PM

2019-05-08T22:23:07-04:00

We can ping pong ok, I got you and I will help you. I'm not a liar and I'm not educated on this but I'm good at what I do.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made May 9 at 2019 5:52 PM

2019-05-09T17:52:55-04:00

How are you doing now?

Response by PO1 Tony Miller made May 12 at 2019 11:04 AM

2019-05-12T11:04:22-04:00

Hang in there, brother! I have several vet friends who brought mental junk back home to deal with! Look after yourself and never avoid asking for help. There are people who WANT to help!

Response by SFC Robert Macklin made May 15 at 2019 9:23 PM

2019-05-15T21:23:22-04:00

Sgt. you may be suffering PTSD or depression. It isnt easy to tell with just a little information. The first thing you should be concerned with is your self and your family. some of the issues you described are sure signs that you need help sooner rather than later. As for the unit they would much rather know that you left to get help than to hear sometihing bad happened to you and they never knew you were hurting and never got the chance to help you. One thing about the military is each soldier is valuable yet each of us can be replaced with minumn effort and will be when needed. In other words they will be fine without you. Talk to someone you trust or call one of the hotlines. It is much more acceptable to get help now days, and as retired combat veteran and now mental health counselor, my professional feeling is that you should not wait. Feel free to contact me ( [login to see] ) SFC (ret). LPC

Response by SPC Kim Fields made May 17 at 2019 3:11 AM

2019-05-17T03:11:26-04:00

Don't wait baby, I wish i had started getting treatment early, those people won't be around when you're out and trying to get disability and are having a hard time because you didn't get treatment earlier. Start treatment asap!

Response by COL Mark Schulthess made May 30 at 2019 5:47 PM

2019-05-30T17:47:27-04:00

As a medical officer (PA) it is a solvable situation. It may be treated with just talking to a BH professional. A lot of what goes on in our heads related to brain chemistry. Some times an increase or decrease in a chemical can effect you. The new meds work great such as Zoloft, Lexapro, etc. No booze and get adequate sleep, Also if there other other pressing issues a comb can help. Ask for help if you are in serious need. I really have seen someone who doesn’t get better. We all go through but it is fixable. I like your idea about a job change. Asking for help is a sign of strength! Doc S

Response by COL Mark Schulthess made May 30 at 2019 5:50 PM

2019-05-30T17:50:48-04:00

Sorry I meant Combo of talking and meds.Also I meant I rarely have seen someone who doesn’t get better. Doc S
Doc S

Response by CPT David Gowel made Jun 5 at 2019 7:17 AM

2019-06-05T07:17:42-04:00

There are good programs like this one that may be worth considering: https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/let-us-help-you-conquer-your-ptsd

Let us help you conquer your PTSD | RallyPoint

The STRIVE R&R program is a free, highly effective and long-lasting psychological treatment for military personnel, veterans, and family members struggling with PTSD and suicidal thoughts. You could qualify for a 2-week all-paid for program in Park City, Utah from June 2nd-15th.

Response by CPT Cathryn Thomas made Jun 6 at 2019 2:05 PM

2019-06-06T14:05:42-04:00

Veterans Alternative In Holiday Florida is a very good resource. Call them for their ART services for Veterans. I love this place. And the therapist are very good. No cost to you and confidential.

Response by Cpl Jonathan Alfaro made Jun 12 at 2019 9:30 PM

2019-06-12T21:30:25-04:00

What if I told you. There is nothing wrong with you. You beautiful and perfect just the way you where made? Would you believe me?

Response by SGT Michael Hearn made Jun 12 at 2019 9:57 PM

2019-06-12T21:57:25-04:00

Hello Sgt.
I live like that always on alert at night.
Daysleeper. I stayed keyed up I got into physical exercise
But even trying to sleep like most people I am the Guardian
of My AO

Response by SCPO Harry Stackler made Jun 13 at 2019 7:56 AM

2019-06-13T07:56:35-04:00

Go talk to whomever is a Blessed Friend, or your immediate supervisor before it is too late. I am dealing with some problems at the present, I confide with my wife, I am going to talk to her about situation TODAY, talking is improvement and very important. I will continue talking with a reply from anywhere. I think I have a great solutio, but is it the only one. Talk soon. Respectfully Harry C STACKLER (CTICS(SS)) USN-RETIRED VIETNAM-VETERAN

Response by SFC Daniel Jarvis made Jun 20 at 2019 11:11 AM

2019-06-20T11:11:39-04:00

Where are you located? There’s a new treatment for PTSD that requires no medication. Sounds like you have some negative emotions attached to trauma. Staying up and no sleep are common for PTS. The Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories Protocol is the new treatment that eliminates the negative emotions attached to traumatic memories. Unfortunately not a lot of trained counselors yet. So again where are you located? Maybe we can connect you with someone.

Response by Sgt Josh Yates made Jul 8 at 2019 6:54 AM

2019-07-08T06:54:28-04:00

Wounded Warrior Project pays for my private psychotherapy, which has been ongoing since March 2019, almost once a week. One on one sessions. I never could figure out the psychotherapy from VA in my region. Posters hanging on the wall of the VA hospital about psychotherapy treatment, but psychologist mentioned it starts in "X" amount of months or mental health short staffed. I like psychotherapy because it takes self discipline, self work, and provide another alternative to avoid swallowing pills for short cuts to "feel" better. In addition, the side effects from all the mental health prescriptions. Sometimes, I think the medication is necessary; Ultimately, I think with hard work the medication can be avoid once mind, body, and spirit are sync'd and working together.

Response by Sgt Cynthia Testerman made Jul 25 at 2019 12:21 AM

2019-07-25T00:21:17-04:00

I agrer with you for a career move in order to see whats going on. I never knew what was wrong with me in my active duty time. I wish i would of had the insight as you do to seek help. It was very painful at times. You seem to have a pretty good head on your shoulders enough wisdom to go and seek help when needed so kudos to you and I know you're going to be just fine with your new career take care

Response by SSG Jack Jurgensen made Jul 31 at 2019 9:29 PM

2019-07-31T21:29:43-04:00

Screw everyone else, go to mental health and see someone. Before you actually do freak out and hurt someone or yourself. What would make you a disappointment, going for help or killing someone? Just think about that...

Response by SP5 Odell Carter Bryant made Aug 1 at 2019 3:40 PM

2019-08-01T15:40:30-04:00

You are your fist Priority, please talk to a certified professional at your current Station. I felt the same way and sometimes i still do but through continuous counseling life has become A LOT better. Please get get Mental Health Help while the choice is still yours. We have your 6.

Response by PO3 Jason Buck made Aug 15 at 2019 12:27 AM

2019-08-15T00:27:21-04:00

I honestly need to get help as well. I feel like I have never really transitioned back into normal life and nobody understands when I tell them this. Sometimes the anxiety is almost crippling and I get really depressed and sit in my head for hours as well. I really hope things get better, just remember you are not alone. Many of us feel the same and just want help and are either too ashamed or proud to seek it out for fear of alienation or loss of state certifications/jobs.

Response by MSgt Lawrence Daley made Dec 27 at 2019 9:55 AM

2019-12-27T09:55:18-05:00

Sgt C. Thankyou for your service. You need to sit down and talk to someone. It is nothing to be ashamed of. Let me give you a couple of pointers that have helped me:
Self Care: Good well-balanced diet. Stay away from junk food. Lots of fruit and veggies. Go to the gym. This is a must. Find a good place where you can get there and exercise.
Friendship: Find someone where you are or far away that you can confide in on a regular basis. I mean really really talk to that you trust. You know who that person is i.e., friend, co-worker, relative, parent etc.
No alcohol: Enough said. Not a good time to be drinking.
Faith/Inspiration: I am not preaching but find something you believe in. Religion, group etc. Something you can connect with.
Positive pastime: Good comedies in movies are nice. Nothing violent or sad. Mrs. Doubtfire with Robin Williams of Eddie Murphy on Saturday nigh live. Nothing heavy something light and easy. Good books even the comics in the newspaper are sometimes soothing.
No sleeping pills! Can't sleep doesn't mean putting things in your body that you didn't put in there before.
I like the idea of getting a job in a maintenance company. Good move.

Let me know brother. We all feel your pain. These are just ideas I have used myself.

Larry Daley
MSGT USAF retired.