“In the list, you left out the nightmares that last for long after. And the drinking and the failed marriages. “
They’re on the list, I just didn’t want to overdo it.
While permanently changed, it’s possible to have a normal life.
Talk openly to your doc. Download the VA forms and see if he’ll fill them out.
As for firearms, they are only an issue at 100% disability. For those of us at 30% or 50%...non-issue. Nobody will ever ask. And if you’ve managed to support yourself over the last 40 years you’re 50% max.
My big epiphany was when I realized that the temporary relief of alcohol actually made the anxiety worse!
And at our age it’s not about the money. The money is trivial. It’s about access to programs ONLY the VA offers, programs that make a difference in quality of life.
What’s left of it.
The VA has taken care of me about the residuals of my wounds and I have retired from a long and successful career - and this last marriage is really wonderful: 20 years and going strong.
I stopped any drinking at all about nine years ago and I keep in close touch with my buddies who made it back.
Other than the propensity to write about experiences that not everyone wants to hear about, I'm doing great.