How have you dealt with PTSD?

I'm dealing with it as a spouse. Hubby (11 years active duty Navy) headed off to Iraq and Afghanistan and did 4 years as a civilian contractor with the Army. When he came home injured, he didn't really think he had such issues. After all, its perfectly normal to hit the deck when you hear a rocket heading your way, but avoiding crowded malls or church services because you don't feel safe and jumping at sudden rises in noise in a restaurant isn't.

He admits it, but that doesn't really help.

Not sure how to help him.

While I don't have PTSD I do have a great passion in helping those who do. As I witnessed the destructive power of PTSD I felt helpless in trying to help a friend as his life spun out of control. So I educated myself on the subject and tend to hone in on topics like this to hear what others have to say and learn from their experiences. One particular experience has stuck with me. I get rather emotional just thinking about that experience. I think sometimes what would have happened if I didn't reach out to that stranger that night. Call it dumb luck, divine intervention, it was definitely a life changing experience for me. I know this is not what you where looking for as a response just more of a you're not alone in this and that people do truly care about your well being.

I have been there and done that soo many times it is my second life, sometimes my first. Terrible!!!!!

Thank you everyone for sharing your experiences, they are humbling.

Meds, meds, meds and alcohol. I don't recommed the alcohol.

I believe way more SM have PTSD than claim to...and quietly deal with it. I also believe you can have micro accumulative trauma, and also have macro trauma, both causing PTSD-like symptoms.
I think back, and the same haunting memories come flooding back. I call the parents annually of the troops I lost. I was one of the last ones to be with them....I feel it is my duty to remind them that they are not forgotten.

And then there is Rally Point...I can vent and not feel judged, most of the time. Every once in awhile, a real winner posts a snarky remark...I'm getting better about dealing with those these days.

I also joined the National Guard, a life saver really, it has aided in my transistion, and I see a lot of guys dealing with the same shit I am, in different ways, but I firmly believe the Reserves is a great way to transition into some sense of normalcy.

And lastly, counseling weekly for over a year, and new crap is surfacing monthly. Don't think it's a quick fix...it's not. Take your time, make like-minded friends and keep them. Don't shut people out that love you.

You asked...I hope it helps more than one person.