The Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) is sharing the personal stories and experiences of our Veterans through a series of audio interviews.

These 90-second segments will explore the challenges faced by some Veterans and the MDVA services and support available to Veterans and their families.

Returning from Vietnam, David didn’t know about Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Eventually with therapy, David learned how to work through anxiety and was featured in a video used to help Veterans get the help they need with PTSD. /mdva/assets/mdva-david-h-01_tcm1066-685823.wavListen to David’s story.

When David got home from Vietnam, he stayed home, didn’t feel welcomed, didn’t want to talk to anyone and buried his feelings. David credits his wife with encouraging him to get help with his feelings and experiences. /mdva/assets/mdva-david-h-02_tcm1066-685824.wavHear David share more.

Before recognizing that suicide harms everyone a person leaves behind, David was experiencing PTSD and attempted suicide. During a moment of despair, David’s thoughts went to his wife, looked up a hotline and got help. /mdva/assets/mdva-david-h-03_tcm1066-685825.wavContinue listening to David.

Learn about MDVA’s efforts to prevent Veteran suicide.

Beyond Active Duty – Caring for those who served is produced in partnership with Ampers and airs on 17 of their community radio stations serving Minnesota’s diverse communities.