Any Vietnam Veterans on here?
Apr 12, 2017 19:29:59 #
Recently I have been having dreams that are getting to me. Most involve guns of one kind or another. They are violent and I wake up scared. I am feeling depressed and irritable most of the time and don't care about much at all. Several times a day I feel my eyes watering. And I cant seem to stay awake for more than a few hours until I just have to take a nap, so I am not sleeping well at nights either. It was like this after I was discharged but then I knew the dreams were directly related to Vietnam. Just wondering if this is normal or if anyone else is experiencing something like this? The only thing I think that is keeping my sanity is my dog and my grand daughter. The VA says I don't have PTSD, but they have me on meds for depression.
Thanks everyone
Thanks everyone
Apr 13, 2017 06:54:04 #
Stay focused on your family. Everyone treated the Vietnam vet like crap back then. Why stop now.the only one that will help you is you. Find something you like doing and enjoy life.
Apr 13, 2017 07:01:15 #
berchman
Loc: South Central PA
Vietnam Vet wrote:
Recently I have been having dreams that are gettin... (show quote)
If you can afford it, go to a physician in private practice who specializes in PTSD and see what he or she says.
Apr 13, 2017 07:25:54 #
Welcome to the forum. Do you have a major VA hospital near you? If you do go there or call them and ask for another psych appointment. They got me through some tough times with antidepressants but that class of medication is tricky and they may just need to adjust your meds or the dosage of the meds you are on now. Stay distracted as much as possible and like shadows said stay focused on your granddaughter or other projects.
Apr 13, 2017 07:31:15 #
FrankR
Loc: NYC
Contact Vietnam Veterans of America, The Association of Vietnam Veterans of America (two different groups) or Veterans Outreach Center. The first two were founded specifically to assist those of you who gave so much and received so little.
Apr 13, 2017 08:29:33 #
Was in Viet Nam for 6 1/2 years. Attitude always good, tempered with booze.
I need pills to sleep at night, and doze during the day. Extremely emotional and eyes tear up at any type of emotional event, activity, even hearing the National Anthem or Taps.
Don't know if it was from Viet Nam or just getting older (75 in June)
Hang in there and think good thought every day with loved ones, human or animal.
Stay Hard my friend.
Sarge69
I need pills to sleep at night, and doze during the day. Extremely emotional and eyes tear up at any type of emotional event, activity, even hearing the National Anthem or Taps.
Don't know if it was from Viet Nam or just getting older (75 in June)
Hang in there and think good thought every day with loved ones, human or animal.
Stay Hard my friend.
Sarge69
Apr 13, 2017 08:36:55 #
Vietnam Vet wrote:
Recently I have been having dreams that are gettin... (show quote)
My husband was in the Marines, 1st Force Recon from 60-68. He was on his second tour and the Tet offense sent him home and was discharged. I met him that year at a party and married him in 1969. At times his nightmares were terrifying. He was going to college under the GI bill and a Jesuit priest was a guest lecturer. After the talk was over he walked straight up to my husband and said"I know your pain" He was also in Viet Nam as a priest. This priest had the greatest impact on him.He helped him overcome his demons. To this day they are still friends. My husband believes prayer has helped him.
Apr 13, 2017 08:52:44 #
I am 86 now and the VA has pushed me over to Medicare. 1950 Korea 1966-1967 Nam
Apr 13, 2017 09:44:07 #
Denny357mag
Loc: Sparta,Mi
I thought I was fine until I retired, now I remember thing that never happened. I joined the American legion and that seemed to help. Good luck.
Apr 13, 2017 09:46:37 #
Mary Kate is on the right track when she suggests the power of prayer. For my part I'd suggest that you find yourself a kind, compassionate, Bible-based church and join the fold. Embracing Jesus, and sincere prayer cost nothing, but the benefits are immeasurable. May God Bless you Brother. John
Apr 13, 2017 09:54:25 #
NickelCigar
Loc: Lenexa, Kansas
Do you have a VFW post nearby. They will gladly help you with info and contacts, even if you are not a member. Went through 4 different antidepressants and multiple doses and now have something that works pretty well. Maybe join a VFW and get involved, I work bingo nights, fish fries and Honor Guard for funerals. Its been a very positive experience and have met some great guys.
Apr 13, 2017 10:24:55 #
Spent time in Nam ,Myself,May 68/May 69.....Vietnam Veterans of America were helpful when I needed to hookup with the VA.....I'm sure if you give them a call ,they might be able to point you in the right direction.In the mean time stay focused on family and keep busy.....get out there an take some photos.
Apr 13, 2017 10:26:08 #
Vietnam Vet wrote:
Recently I have been having dreams that are gettin... (show quote)
RVN 68,69 & 72
Yes you have PTSD. A lot of good help here, Try to keep a positive attitude, also keep trying with the VA if does not pan out call a hotline explain to the operator how you are feeling, the op should have resources to guide you too. You might try going down to the humane society and voluntering or pick up a rescue puppy to take care of, anything to keep your mind in a positive frame, with something to do. Find a good church and talk with the pastor, minister a good one should know how to help and talk with you. Keep the faith brother you are not alone in this.
Wylie Shaw U.S. Army/U.S.C.G retired.
Apr 13, 2017 10:34:42 #
Apr 13, 2017 10:38:51 #
Sounds like you could have "sleep apnea" that could be a big part of your problem. Can be checked out with a simple sleep study. I had similar problems. A CPAP machine was the answer. Still have the occasional nightmare but don't know if that will ever go away totally.
Vietnam Vet wrote:
Recently I have been having dreams that are gettin... (show quote)
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