On 11/22/13, 8:37 PM, Mr. Luddite wrote:
On 11/22/2013 7:06 PM, F.O.A.D. wrote:




"Nuts." A great DSM-V diagnosis. Love it.



His words. Not the VA's.


Has your friend given up on obtaining help for his psychological
problems? Is he still visiting the VA for therapy?



He continues to go for sessions mainly to address anger issues that
manifest themselves mostly in an inability to deal in a normal, rational
way with others at times, especially if there is a conflict of interest.
Most people can deal with that. He can't. He's better than he was 12
years ago when he really had some serious issues. There's no "cure" as
I understand it ... only a continuous trial of dealing with internal
pressures that only he and his shrink know and discuss. As a long time
friend and the best man at his wedding he has discussed some of them
with me, but not all. They relate to experiences in Vietnam that were
so contrary to what he was a person. He wasn't a fighter. He was a
Hospital Corpsman trying to save lives. I don't really understand all
his issues and I don't probe.

He has also slowed down a bit following two heart attacks. He has a
total of five stents now and knows he's on borrowed time. Funny thing
is, he is fit as a fiddle, no body fat and no history of heart problems
in his family.

About 12 years ago he was really down because he was trying to buy a
motorcycle apparel shop to make a living and was trying to go through
the SBA process to get a loan. The process frustrated him even more,
due in part to his issues. That was about the time I had sold my
business and was in a position to help. I hesitate to say this because
certain people here might think I am bragging or something, but I gave
him the money he needed to buy the shop. It gave both me and Mrs.E.
great pleasure to be able to help. It worked out well for several years
but eventually he had to give it up. Customers would **** him off and
the anger issues would arise.

His wife is a sweetheart and has been a foundation of support for him
over the years. She's a principal in a local school system following
many years of teaching. Good people but it's too bad he was never able
to achieve his early goals in life.



Sad story...thanks for sharing.

--
Religion: together we can find the cure.