My husband was diagnosed with PTSD almost one year ago at Fort Knox. He came back from Iraq in 2004 and has been on a seemingly self-destructive path since shortly after returning. There is also some pretty sever childhood abuse in his past, and we both believe that this is probably a contributing factor. We have been together for 15 years and I have to admit that he has never been as emotionally connected as most people. We both believe that he has probably always had PTSD from his childhood and that his deployment to Iraq has brought it to a point where it has to be dealt with.

He does get counseling one on one with a civilian counselor and also in a group setting through the VA. Up to this point, he has pretty much refused to attend any counseling together as a couple or family. I am dealing with infidelity, anger, drinking, lies, game playing, you name it. He has left our home multiple times and always ends up coming back, but the behavior never changes. He left two nights ago and I've told him that he can't come back this time unless he's prepared to give me something. I feel like I have given all the patience and understanding that I can, but he pretty much refuses to give me anything. I feel that if I continue to put up with his bad behavior, he will have no reason to try to change and that I will lose myself along the way.

I hope that I am doing the right thing. I don't want to add any more stress to his life, but I have to start thinking about myself and our children. Any advice and support I can get from both carers and sufferers is most welcome. I feel like I could explode with anxiety and depression, and anger.

Bless you all for being here and sharing your stories.

Angela