Army veteran Justin Aguayo, who served in Iraq in the early 2000s, struggled for years with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and agoraphobia so severe that leaving his home felt impossible. Music and psychiatric care helped him recover, and he now teaches guitar to fellow veterans.
Following his deployment, Aguayo developed PTSD and agoraphobia—a fear of open or crowded spaces—that confined him indoors. Ordinary activities became overwhelming; he would drive to the gym but turn around before entering due to overwhelming anxiety.
Seeking help at Houston VA Medical Center a couple of years ago, Aguayo met psychiatrist Dr. Gurtej Mann, who helped manage his medications and gently encourage him to confront the world he'd been avoiding. The treatment was gradual but effective. Returning to the gym became his first major milestone. After several initial failed attempts, he eventually started going regularly and now trains five days a week.
Mann also supported Aguayo's return to music performance. Show by show and conversation by conversation, his psychiatrist helped him build the confidence to talk with audience members and stand in rooms full of strangers without fear.
Today, Aguayo performs in two bands playing symphonic metal and goth music, which are gaining momentum and touring. He is also pursuing a master's degree in audio engineering at San Jacinto College while holding a master's in public health, and he teaches guitar to fellow veterans through Stay Tuned for Vets, an organization connecting veterans with music as a healing tool.
Last week, Aguayo performed in the Houston VA Medical Center lobby for patients. Initially hesitant, worried his music might bother people, he found an immediate positive response. Veterans stopped to listen and smile. "Music speaks where words can't," Aguayo said. "It'll help you get out anger, frustration, joy or whatever it is you're carrying."
Aguayo said his recovery is ongoing. He still experiences agoraphobic tendencies, and PTSD and anxiety haven't fully disappeared. Some days remain difficult. But he plans to continue performing regularly at the Houston VA to support other veterans' healing.