What should I do if my mental health has deteriorated badly (panic attacks and depression) and I'm worried about being chaptered?

2018-07-14T16:27:10-04:00

I’m currently a holdover at Fort Leonard Wood and I just got back from convalescence leave that was forced on me by battalion. I was almost out and sent to RHU. I have multiple stress fractures in both my knees . Anyway, my mental health has deteriorated badly. I’ve been having constant panic attacks throughout the day and my depression is keeping me from eating and I’m having thoughts of self harm. I don’t think I’ll do it but it scares me. I have my evaluation to see where I’m at, which I still hurt and I’m still injured. I’m so afraid of not getting chapter out and I’m afraid of my mental health. I don’t want them to lock me up. I just want to go home and there is no one to talk to. So I’m reaching out on here.

Response by LT Brad McInnis made Jul 14 at 2018 4:36 PM

2018-07-14T16:36:09-04:00

Talk to the base chaplain. Even if you aren't religious, they are really good people to talk to and they have seen it all. My only other advice is to just take a deep breath. Sometimes, in the middle of a situation piling up, we get overwhelmed, and all it takes is a step back, a mental break, and then attack the problem. Best of luck and let me know if there is anything else I can help with, okay?

Response by 1st Lt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 14 at 2018 5:08 PM

2018-07-14T17:08:44-04:00

Reach out to a Chaplain or someone in Mental Health. You’re not going to get “locked up” for it, and seeking help is a good thing. Chaplains have 100% confidentiality.

You’re not alone, you don’t have to deal with these thoughts alone. Please, especially with thoughts of self-harm, don’t hesitate to talk to someone, your shirt, a mental health professional, a Chaplain - we are all here for you

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made Jul 14 at 2018 6:04 PM

2018-07-14T18:04:46-04:00

Have requested to talk to the chaplain, or other personnel that would be of assistance?.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 14 at 2018 7:42 PM

2018-07-14T19:42:06-04:00

Talk to the chaplain. They can help. You are not alone.

Response by Lt Col Charlie Brown made Jul 14 at 2018 9:06 PM

2018-07-14T21:06:52-04:00

You can look any of us up and then send a message. It is very important though that you talk to someone. First suggestion is the chaplain. You can also call One Source and ask for some counseling. Text SIGNS to 741741 for assistance. You are not alone