This weekend I had the opportunity to train with NAMI (National Alliance for Mental Illness), and I became a certified support group facilitator. I am extremely excited to take on the challenge, and help out with the veterans support groups. As we have said before, Nicole and I got involved with NAMI Front Line, a non-VA support group for veterans with PTSD. It is unique to our area, and is the only NAMI support group that invites veterans and their family members. Front Line has taken us miles in our journey, and I am now preparing to take it to the next step by running a group of my own.
Also, I recently made an important decision. I have decided to pursue a degree in social work, and hopefully go to work for the VA. I have felt a need for a while now that the VA needs to change. I agree that they try, but far too many times I've seen them come up short, and our vets get frustrated. I have decided that the best way for me to help these changes along is to join the VA team myself. I am not pretentious enough to think that I can fix it, but I can certainly help. As the saying goes "if you want something done, you gotta do it yourself".
I am happy to be taking all of these important steps toward my own recovery. I feel empowered, like I can really do some good now, and hopefully I can help someone in need, and keep them from getting to the point where things are just too much, a feeling that I sadly know all too well.
~J.R.
Originally posted on PTSDdiary.com, 6/6/10
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