Families Can Spot Signs of Veterans’ Mental Health Concerns

Chris Meek often they are the closest to notice changes.when someone stops doing something they love is just one. Selling belongings is another. Increased Substance use may occur. There are a thousand clues that often we notice when it’s too late.

Just some thoughts:.....................................................

Ask For Help: Write down a list of all the people or organizations who you can contact or reach out to quickly during your weakest times or when you consider it is appropriate. There should be no thinking or hesitation about who or where to go or call when you absolutely need help. It can be friends, relatives, suicide prevention hotlines, hospital, trusted superiors, clergy, and mental health.

People want to help you. There is no shame in asking for it. Regrettably many people afflicted with PTSD experience self-made or perceived obstacles which impede asking for help. I will delve into reasons why people are often reticent to seek help. Many people are afraid of losing jobs or careers and thus the ability to support their families. This is a natural feeling because the endeavor to provide for the family is great. Some are reluctant to show their “Weakness” to their family and friends for the fear of being ostracized. The never quit attitude is often an impediment to seeking help as well. People often believe they are inherently strong enough to fix themselves, but I noticed many who embarked on this tack often experienced lives spiraling out of control because in all reality they absolutely needed help. Sometimes people cannot mentally connect the dots and have little to no confidence life will become less wearisome. They just don’t have hope which they need.

People who suffer with PTSD must be forewarned sometimes the consequences of not asking for help results in people committing mistakes that are not expected to be made. Unfortunately some of the mistakes can be substantial life changers for the worse. “Normal” people have the capability to rationalize away depression, anxiety, reoccurring thoughts, and regrets. However, people with PTSD often do not have that ability and the powerful symptoms control the people thus reality becomes distorted and skewed. Two worlds will exist: The person’s world and the real world.

This is hugely problematic because a person can perceive the truth in their world, but in all reality it is false. The deception will make people think they are acting rationally in society, but in all actuality they are breaking societal norms and laws and taking unnecessary risks. That is the danger. Be aware this distortion also applies to thinking in regard to suicidal ideations as well. Some people will rationalize committing suicide is the only way to stop the suffering, but they are wrong. Ask for help before you crash and burn. Before your life is altered to the point there is nothing materially left to salvage.

Good afternoon @Chris Meek. Excellent post. Thank You for sharing this.