A former emergency service worker’s battle with Post Traumatic Stress disorder was so consuming he stayed locked inside his house for four years, unable to confront the outside world.
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He made the brave decision to finally leave his house on Saturday – walking straight into the arms of thousands of others affected by the crippling pain of mental illness.
Walking Off The War Within event co-ordinators Josh Martin and Adam Young said this harrowing tale of survival was one of many that “gave him goosebumps” and made them realise the importance of shining the spotlight on PTSD.
The inaugural event began as a way to continue the legacy of Mr Young’s former co-worker Nathan Shanahan – but has now become a bold statement, revealing the ripple effect mental illness has on society.
Mr Young hopes the event will send a powerful message to governments, politicians and emergency service agencies – that the time for action on mental health is now.
“Walking around the track, the conversations you could hear about people talking about PTSD and depression were amazing,” Mr Young said.
“You heard how in some way mental illness has affected everyone’s life and that being able to talk about it is so positive. We’ve achieved exactly what we set out to.”
Soldier On PTSD support services psychologist Matthew Robinson said the transition from military to civilian life could be hard on veterans.
“The transition coming back for veterans can be really difficult, the guys spent years training to be in that environment,” Mr Robinson said.
“PTSD rarely exists in isolation people usually develop depression and other issues.” Lifeline 13 11 14, Soldier On 1300 620 380