As a Cold War veteran with severe PTSD and someone who’s carried the weight of military service in my blood—my family fought in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam—I’ve seen the invisible wounds of war up close. My name is S. Vincent Anthony, and through my writing in books like those exploring the echoes of the battlefield, I’ve delved into the raw realities of PTSD, suicide, and the long road to healing. I’ve drawn from my own experiences and those of the brothers and sisters I’ve known, to shine a light on what too many keep in the shadows. I’ve not had much success dealing with my severe PTSD from conventional treatments, so I’ve created my own through my writing—channeling the chaos into stories that process the pain and offer hope. If you’re a military person grappling with PTSD, feeling like the fight never ended, this guide is for you. It’s not theory—it’s practical steps from someone who’s walked the path and seen others reclaim their lives. Remember, seeking help isn’t weakness; it’s the bravest act in a new kind of battle. Let’s break it down step by step.
Step 1: Acknowledge the Fight and Break the Silence
First things first: Admit to yourself that PTSD is real, and it’s not your fault. In my stories, I write about the emotional scars that linger long after the uniform comes off—flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilance, that constant edge like you’re still on patrol. If you’re feeling numb, isolated, or like hope’s slipped away, that’s the trauma talking, not the truth. Start by talking to someone you trust—a battle buddy, spouse, or chaplain. In the military, we train to have each other’s backs; apply that here.
If you’re still active duty, confide in your chain of command or a unit behavioral health officer. The stigma is fading—programs like the DoD’s Real Warriors Campaign emphasize that getting help strengthens readiness. For veterans, reach out to a fellow vet who’s been there. Organizations like the Wounded Warrior Project offer peer mentors who get it—no judgment, just understanding.
Practical tip: Journal your thoughts daily, even if it’s just a few lines. In my writing, I’ve found putting words to the chaos helps drain its power. Apps like PTSD Coach from the VA can guide you through this anonymously at first.
Step 2: Access Immediate Support—Don’t Wait
If hopelessness hits hard or suicidal thoughts creep in, act fast. I’ve written about the darkness that follows war, and I know how it can swallow you whole if ignored. Call the Veterans Crisis Line at 988 (press 1) or text 838255—it’s 24/7, confidential, and staffed by folks who understand military life. They’ve saved lives, including those of people I’ve known.
For active-duty personnel, head to your base’s mental health clinic or Military OneSource (1-800-342-9647) for free, non-medical counseling. No career repercussions if you seek help voluntarily. Veterans, enroll in VA health care at va.gov—it’s free if service-connected, and they have over 200 specialized PTSD programs. If you’re not enrolled, Vet Centers provide walk-in counseling without paperwork; find one at va.gov/find-locations.
Pro tip: If travel’s an issue, use telehealth. The VA’s video connect app lets you meet providers from home. In my experience sharing stories with other vets, starting virtual eases the first step.
Step 3: Explore Evidence-Based Treatments Tailored to You
PTSD isn’t a life sentence—treatments work, especially when customized to military experiences. I’ve seen comrades transform through therapies that address combat trauma head-on.
- Therapy Options: Start with Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) or Prolonged Exposure (PE)—VA-endorsed methods that help reframe those stuck memories. CPT challenges the “I should’ve done more” guilt I often write about. PE gradually faces triggers in a safe way. For something different, try Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), which processes trauma without endless retelling.
- Medications: SSRIs like sertraline can dial down anxiety and improve sleep. Pair them with therapy for best results. If you’ve got co-occurring issues like TBI or substance use, integrated programs handle that.
- Innovative Approaches: For resistant cases, look into MDMA-assisted therapy trials through the VA or ketamine infusions—emerging but promising for vets. Service dogs can also help; studies show they reduce symptoms by providing grounding and routine.
Practical action: Schedule an intake at a VA PTSD clinic or through TRICARE if active. If you’re in a rural area, community care options cover non-VA providers. Track progress with tools like the VA’s PTSD Checklist to see improvements over time.
Step 4: Build a Support System and Lifestyle Changes
Healing isn’t solo—lean on your network. Join veteran groups like the American Legion or VFW for camaraderie. Programs like the Military Veteran Peer Network in Texas offer peer-led support, training on suicide prevention, and cultural competency. Watch videos on AboutFace (ptsd.va.gov) where vets share their recovery stories—it’s like hearing from the squad.
Incorporate daily habits: Exercise (even a walk clears the fog), mindfulness meditation via apps like Headspace for Veterans, and healthy sleep routines. Avoid alcohol as a crutch—it worsens PTSD. If moral injury haunts you (that guilt from tough calls in the field), therapies addressing it are key.
Tip from my world: Engage in creative outlets. Writing my books helped me process; try art, music, or volunteering with vet causes to reclaim purpose.
Step 5: Navigate Benefits and Long-Term Recovery
File for VA disability if PTSD impacts your work—it’s not charity, it’s earned. Visit va.gov/disability for guidance; a Veterans Service Officer can help with claims. For employment support, Vocational Rehabilitation through the VA aids in job training.
Long-term, focus on resilience. Research consortia like STRONG STAR are advancing treatments, showing that with help, symptoms can drop significantly. Follow up regularly; recovery ebbs and flows, but persistence pays off.
Brother or sister in arms, I’ve honored the fallen in my writing, but the living fight is just as vital. You’ve survived the battlefield—now claim victory over PTSD. Start today; one call, one step. If my words resonate, know you’re not alone. Reach out, heal, and keep moving forward.
Vincent Anthony
Cold War Veteran and Author