The Afghan desert is the most harsh, unforgiving environment I have ever lived in. It's no wonder that millions of dollars are spent on providing for the morale of the troops and support personnel that have to operate here. Yet, some still manage to lose their minds and allow this place to break them. More needs to be done to evaluate the mental ruggedness of individuals before deploying.
I must admit that I have it comparatively easy on Camp Leatherneck compared to the conditions found on other FOBs (Forward Operating Bases) and COBs (Combat Operating Bases). Way too easy. I enjoy hot food, running water, free full service laundry, A/C, gyms, and other amenities that are either non-existent or partially available elsewhere. I am lucky and thankful. All of these things help to maintain my physical and mental well-being.
Last night, I heard that a guy I know kind of had a breakdown and is going home. He's been out here less time than I have (not even three months). I don't know the full story. I imagine I never will. It's not in my job description to know. But I know how I have been able to prevent it for me, just be alive. I think that is much different than living. Being alive involves activity. Be aware of your surroundings. Walk with your head up. Be active. Get a routine and stick to it. I am not just talking about a sleep/eat/work schedule. I am talking about getting into something that wasn't as big a part of your life at home. Start exercising. Read. Write down your thoughts. There is not much else to do out here. So, get active and be alive or vegetate and just live. One of those will see you through the end of a successful deployment, the other is not how I want my year to pass.
