If one or more of these warning signs lasts for a month or more or if any of them lead to serious trouble with work or at home, there is likely a need for additional help:

• Trouble sleeping
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Being on edge, easily startled or overly alert
• Feeling irritable, easily agitated, angry or resentful
• Acts of violence- even if aimed at things rather than people
• Depressed mood, sadness or low energy
• Feelings of hopelessness or thoughts of suicide
• Feeling “scattered”, unable to focus
• Feeling “numb” or withdrawn and disconnected from others
• Increased use of alcohol or other substances
• Danger of job loss or family breakup

Is needing help a sign of weakness?

NO!  Recognizing the need for help – and seeking out that help – is a sign of wisdom.  When any of us starts something new, whether in sports, work, music, art, carpentry or computers  we can all benefit from experienced “coaches”, from other eyes, hands and minds that help shape what we’re doing, in developing our new skills.  Everyone who deploys goes through extensive training prior to deployment to develop and hone the skills needed during the deployment yet somehow it seems each person is supposed to figure out how to readjust to the civilian world on their own; it just “feels funny” to ask for help.  It may feel funny but it’s the smart thing to do – and something almost everyone returning from the combat zone can benefit from.  So who can you see?  Where can you go?  Here are some suggestions:

• Your local Vet Center
• Local pastors
• Family counselors
• Peer-run support groups  
• Your primary care provider
• Your local VA

Get Immediate Help

A relatively small number of returning service members may express a wish to hurt themselves or others.  He/she may also become physically, emotionally or sexually abusive.  These are emergency situations.  The safety of all involved is more important than anything else.  Don't hesitate to call 911 or to take other emergency action. The National Suicide Prevention Hotline is available 24/7 at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

The Good News

Even if you and your family run into problems, effective help is available. In addition to the resources already listed, the following websites can guide you to that help:

• The National Mental Health Association’s Operation  Healthy Reunions  puts a special emphasis on reconnecting with children after deployment.  
• The VA’s National Center for PTSD  includes a special site called Resources for U.S. Soldiers Returning From Deployment, which provides links to and descriptions of some of the best on line information and help.
• The VA’s  Seamless Transition Website  offers authoritative guidance on transition assistance and benefits with additional information specific to Guard and Reserve members.
• The National Suicide Prevention Hotline has written and podcast information on the Web ( Suicide Prevention )
• The Deployment Health Clinical Center is a resource for clinicians, veterans and families
• The Face of the New Veteran Resource Guide for Veterans and Families (PDF) lists many good resources
• The US Army Wounded Warrior Program offers help for injured soldiers and their families
• Finally, if you are passing this information alontg to someone who does not have Internet access or you do not have Internet access at hoome, you can get help 24/7 by calling MilitaryOneSource  toll-free at 1-800-342-9647.

North Carolina - Model Resources

• NCcareLink:  A comprehensive health and human services website providing up-to-date information about programs and services across NC
• NC CARE-LINE:  "Linking citzens with services" 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by calling 1-800-662-7030 (English/Spanish)
• NC Health Info: Health and medical information in a searchable database

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