Posted by just plain jane on December 27, 2004, at 18:28:27
In reply to Re: vet benefits?, posted by Smeegle on December 21, 2004, at 19:33:18
I am a veteran with PTSD. I receive counseling with a therapist and have sessions with the psychiatrist as needed, at the closest VA facility, which, for me, is 98 miles away. It is well worth the 2 hour trip and the time spent dealing with the procedure at the VA medical center.
I live in the sticks, which is why I have so far to go. Your son has the same benefits due him as any other honorably discharged veteran.
May I suggest he go to the nearest VA facility and look into his mental health care options? He will most likely find there are many veterans there like him.
The VA is now in the hands of the Vietnam era Vets, for the most part. Most of them have a clue about PTSD.
By the way, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder usually doesn't rear its ugly head right away. That's why it's called Post Traumatic. And, if he doesn't tend to his psychological needs now, he will undoubtedly be in considerably worse shape keeping it inside the longer he goes.
I have Viet Vet and Gulf War Vet friends I have helped get into the VA mental health system, and recently convinced a crusty old World War II Vet to go get enrolled and get into mental health counseling. He had to try a couple different therapists to find the one at the VA who "fit", but he persevered and is already glad he did. None of my friends has been regretful for seeking help.
The media is not the place to look for information. Veterans Affairs is. Yes things can take time, but it is time wasted the longer one waits to seek help.
just plain concerned and know where i've been jane
poster:just plain jane
thread:430736
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/psycho/20041218/msgs/434686.html