Unanticipated Discharge from Active Service

The Situation

A soldier was injured on active service. Although his physical injuries were successfully treated he was unable to regain the fitness level required by his unit and was invalided out.

The Consequence

Unable to find work or to deal with the end of his army career he became obsessed with pushing his physical limits and subject to panic attacks, outbursts of anger and flashbacks of traumatic events experienced during his service. His partner became overwhelmed and frightened by his behaviour, giving him an ultimatum to seek help.

The Approach

Unused to expressing his feelings, and more than a little reluctant, a very practical approach was adopted which focussed on constructing a viable plan for the future whilst, at the same time, learning anxiety and anger management techniques. Other interventions helped him to process his traumatic experiences. His partner was invited in to some sessions so that she could understand why he had been responding that way and how she could defuse potentially explosive situations.

The Result

It was difficult for him to come to terms with his disappointment and loss, but as his confidence grew in his ability to rebuild his life these feelings became less acute. His panic attacks and anger outbursts reduced and he was able to maintain his relationship.