Glad you're here Aelis,

My spouse is suffering from PTSD (Desert Storm & Afghanistan). I met him 5 years ago and was with him when he was deployed to Afg. I'm glad you are starting here and educating yourself. Smart move. As a supporter of someone with PTSD, all I can tell you is buckle up and be ready for a ride. It's been my experience that when my hubby clams up and hides away, I just let him do that and eventually, he comes out of it on his own. You are fortunate that your guy is seeking help at the VA. Support that. Mine refuses but does seem to have some method of dealing with PTSD so I try to let him deal with it the way that works for him. If you feel that when he hides away that he is suicidal, then check on him. If he just needs to deal with the things in his head, let him deal. It is hard to do, I know. In the beginning I thought I could fly in with my super girl cape and save him. It doesn't work that way. Just be there and do not give up if you truly love him. However, protect yourself and shield yourself from taking things he says or does (at times) too personally. He needs you to just be there for him. Let him know that you are there and ready to fight through this with him...and it will be a fight.

We are all here for you. I have found immense help and relief just talking to others who are going through the same thing. It also helps to hear from the sufferers like Anthony and others to gain some perspective. Write anytime and stay with us.