Broken Heroes is a candid blog about PTSD
and other Mental Health Conditions that impact on the lives of Ex-Service/Defence personnel,
Police (State & Federal), Firefighters, Ambulance officers and their Families.
It is a place where you can feel safe
talking about the effects of having or living with someone who is suffering
from PTSD. PTSD does not just affect the
person who has the condition; it has an effect on everyone involved in their
life; partner, children, parents, siblings, friends and colleagues.
We hope to help create
not only a safe and supportive environment for those whose lives are impacted
by PTSD but to also create awareness of PTSD and its effects. There is still so
much stigma and ignorance regarding PTSD and Mental Health, not only in the
wider community but within the Defence and Emergency services themselves.
This blog may contain information
of a sensitive nature, which some people may find distressing and while we will
endeavour to be aware of this, content
will sometimes take precedence for the purpose of education and awareness. We ask that anyone visiting this site to
please be respectful and understand that we all have our own opinions, but this is not the place to bully or be rude
just because you think differently. I know I am more likely to pay attention to
your opinion if you present it respectfully and who knows maybe you might teach
me something I didn't know. We aim to treat everyone respectfully and to
support those who become invested in this site.
So who are we…
Sam:- I am the wife and carer of a younger veteran who served in the Royal
Australian Navy for 18 years and, was formally, diagnosed with PTSD in 2006,
more than a year after he was medically discharged. Our lives and the lives of
our four children have been severely impacted by my husbands’ condition. I have
spent untold hours learning and researching PTSD to better educate myself and
gain understanding. There is still so much lacking in the way that ex-service
members with PTSD are cared for and even more so lacking with regards to care
for families. I am passionate about changing these conditions.
Rebecca:- I am an author who has a passion for spreading awareness about PTSD.
Why, you might ask…Simple, my husband is in the Defence Force and has been on 3
deployments. We have watched our friends suffer with PTSD and the neglect
caused by the lack of mental health services available to them. I don’t wish to
see this happen anymore. I am a huge believer that the Defence, Police, Fire-Fighters
and Ambulance Officers attaining the mental health services they deserve.