Testimonials

A Marine Veteran’s Story – The difference a day makes

I am a marine veteran who not only suffers from PTSD, but a lot of other mental health issues as well. I spent two decades suppressing my feelings and emotions, trying to fit in and be a part of normal society.

I struggled with anxiety and depression and used drugs and alcohol to cope with it for a majority of the time. I called the VCL and was in therapy for a long time and still did not feel connected. I lost friends and family due to my struggles.

I was told about vets4warriors today and decided to call.

I talked to a person who understood me, that had been through my struggles, and who was able to remind me that most aren’t built like we are. They reminded me that I need to take care of myself and do what works for me, and to find support from those few that do get it.

I felt completely lost before I picked up the phone, ready to leave everything behind, my friends, my family, and be alone forever. But thanks to the veteran on the other end of the line, I feel like I can do this. I feel like I have the strength to get the help I need for me, and not worry about what everyone else thinks of me. I now know that it’s okay to go through it and that I can’t expect people who haven’t been where I have been to understand.

I feel like finding people like me will really help me feel stronger and will make it possible to be able to cope with it all.