If Im having a problem and I don't feel like the VA is really helping me or listening to me. Where do I turn to?
Kinda depends, but maybe a good source would be the Purple Heart Society, the American Legion, or even Texas Vets.
Sometimes you just need a different counselor even.
I have used the online vet helpline to get help for another vet.
I would say contact either a Senator or Representative, but I don't trust any of the ones in my district.
Or stage a sit in at Audie Murphy and ask for news media, like 'the Defenders'.
Yea its not an issue with benefits. Its getting counseling with ptsd and stuff.
You can add vfw to list they have advocates there or you could call psych services directly at the VA hospital...dont know what level of services you have but that hotline can put you in touch with the right people.
Gonz,
PTSD/TBI is serious shit as you can tell any of us that are not directly affected by it.
Every military hospital and every VA center must have a patient representative.
If you cannot, for whatever reason, get help at SAMMC or WHMC, then Audrey Murphy is it.
A patient reps mandate is to represent YOUR interest to get the help you or your family needs.
And even though you may live alone (I remember your posts) PTSD affects your friends and family.
Do not let it slide, these are wounds best treated with professional help.
If you want to and only if you want to, you can take this off-line and PM me.
I will do my best to get you help.
I, myself, have zero training with your needs.
Dogg
Thanks Dogg,
Im going to give them another shot on Mon. Ive just been dealing with this off and on really for the past three years trying to get the right help but the red tape and bureaucracy of this system can be hard to navigate. Im close to saying the heck with it and just getting private insurance. In the meantime I contacted a couple of ol buddies from my unit to just talk to. Just to hold me over.
Thanks for the concern and advice fellas.
Frank Tejeda PTSD clinic has been helping me greatly- I almost don't want to kill them LOL. Try again. If you have need of a friend/confidant/drinking buddy, PM me. I will never leave behind a brother- and 2 can fight better than 1.
Sorry to hear that SgtGonzo... I hope you find what it is that you seek.
+4 paws for Nerdy.
Vets help Vets. I don't have the situational experience in order to fully comprehend what yall have gone thru or are going thru.
The only war zone I have ever served in and been shot at is San Antonio.
I've been around the world but really never faced battle or danger.
First marriage not counting.
There is help available, for the most part just ask.
Dogg
The VA should cover it if you want to try a different health provider, mental or otherwise. Just let them know your situation, and they should help you out. But be persistent with them, they have a knack for overlooking things with all the patients they see.
Patient Advocate at Audie Murphy Veterans Hospital.
I have had to use them before.
Please PM me if you need any assistance brother.
CP
Gonzo, I too live with the same issue, no TBI. Another resource is "Military One Source". It has alot of info and contacts. I see a doc at WH that is pretty good. Good luck
Texas vets has helped me with my claims for disability since I have been retired...they are a great resource to use...they are on the second floor at Audie Murphy...no appointments taken...first come first served. Patient advocate may be the way to go as well.
Please PM me if you ever need any help...ready to assist in any way I can.
get another counselor and if your counselor helpful like mine they would have already gone above and beyond....hope get help and here anytime also for a fellow brother.......