NEWS FROM THE DIGGERS

Contents

02 Letter from the President

04 Dog Sponsorship

06 Drive for Diggers

07 Welfare Report

08 Social Events

12 30 Day Challenge

14 Saving Ranger

17 Young Diggers Updates

18 Coaching and Hypnotherapy

20 It’s Not About Us — It’s About YOU

21 Suicide Warning Signs

22 Purple Poppies

24 Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

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02 03www.vvcs.gov.au

Veterans and Veterans FamiliesCounselling Service

Australian Government

Veterans | Families | Eligible ADF

W ith the end of the year fast approaching we need to give thought to our deployed

troops and their family members. Young Diggers is putting together two very large care packages to send over to Iraq and Afghanistan to help them through the Christmas New Year period. All donations gratefully accepted. Contact john@youngdiggers.com.au.

Our thanks to the Defence Bank Foundation for increasing their sponsorship to cover the Bunker at Newmarket, and offering their administration expertise, which we gratefully accepted. They will also help us with an award ceremony for those people who have volunteered and done so much during the year.

Membership continues to grow at a rapid rate, especially from the southern states, for both our Young Diggers membership and the “Dog Squad“. We received two pups from the Amberley Air Force base breeding program this month and look forward to many more in the future. Thank you to the management at Amberley.

Our Directors, Leanne Kyle, Steve Austin, Peter Walters have done a magnificent job this year and I look forward to an exciting 2016 with them.

The Drive for Diggers vehicle is a 1973 ford F100 Ambulance and it is about ready to roll. Jon Nolan has put this program together to take welfare services and our programs to regional Australia. Congratulations Jon. Please go to the Drive for Diggers facebook page for more information.

More media are producing our new 2016 Calenders and they will be ready for sale in December. Contact the Q store on our website www.youngdiggers.com.au. Anthony Jones and James Taylor have worked with Moore Media putting our news magazine together and gathering content, thanks guys.

In November we celebrate Remembrance Day, the laying down of arms at the end of the great war. We will celebrate this at the Bunker with music and a Bar-B-Q and lots of fun. All serving and ex-serving troops and family members welcome. The Bunker is at No16 Thurlow St, Newmarket, Brisbane.

John Jarrett.President.

Letter from the President OCTOBER 2015

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Proud to support the Young Diggers

Dog Squad

The Defence Bank Foundation is an independent charity (separate to the operations of Defence Bank). We established the Foundation to provide support to ill, wounded and disadvantaged serving and former Australian Defence Force members.

We have chosen the Young Diggers Dog Squad as our primary beneficiary of our fundraising efforts around Australia over the next two years.

To find out more, visit us at defencebankfoundation.com.au

The Defence Bank Foundation ABN: 19 814 426 820

Application Forms for sponsorship can be found at: www.youngdiggers.com.au/ dogsponsorship

Dog SponsorshipOCTOBER 2015

Is your group or business interested in sponsoring a Dog? The Young Diggers Dog Squad is training rescued dogs to become Assistance Dogs to support the rehabilitation of our serving and ex-serving Australian Defence Force members who are dealing with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders (PTSD). This program is helping more than just the individuals. The Dog Squad helps Defence families to better cope with the effects of PTSD and saves the lives of abandoned dogs.

The Dog Squad is run entirely by the volunteers at Young Diggers and groups and businesses to sponsor dogs to continue running the program. It costs $2,500 to Sponsor a Dog through the Dog Squad program. Your sponsorship will rescue an abandoned dog and cover its expenses whilst it is training to become an Assistance Dog. Your business or group can help by sponsoring a dog today.

The Dog Sponsorship Program is proudly co-ordinated and administered by the Defence Bank Foundation.

Paul and Rose Mulraney

Dogs for Diggers Bike Ride 2014

Gentlemen of Kokoda

Jon and Alex Linehan

Emily and Shannon Chapman

Lambton-Newlambton RSL Club

John and Jenny Lord

Fran Clayton Leridan Farm

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A NEW WORKSHOP KEEPING UP TO DATE

Drive for Diggers Welfare Report

U nfortunately over the last couple of months Drive for Diggers has been fairly

quiet, for a couple of different reasons. The first is that I have moved house which was very draining, but with a positive spin, the new house has a big enough shed to be the new Drive for Diggers Bunker. Complete with a lounge room, four post car hoist and a gantry crane, so now we can work on the ambulance in comfort and style.

The items on the to do list are to fix the rear main leak in the transmission, and then I am thinking it might be time for a spin on the dyno for some fine tuning. Next up will be the dual battery system and maybe an air conditioner, from there it will be time to hit the road and get a couple of small trips in.

O ur welfare and pensions section is busy as usual and my apologies for the time

it has taken me to get back to some of you. We are in the process of setting up our own training program for those of you who want to become advocates so you can help your mates with their claims to the department of veteran’s affairs. If anyone is interested please contact me on the numbers below.

We are also going to run a PTSD awareness seminar for the families of those suffering from psychiatric illnesses. These seminars are run at the Bunker at Newmarket by the staff from Toowong Private Hospital and will be recorded and placed on our web site so those in remote areas can watch them at their convenience.

PhotoThe new Drive for Diggers Bunker before everything was moved in.

If you would like Drive for Diggers to visit your location and have a talk about all things that Young Diggers do then please send an email to: drive4diggers@youngdiggers.com.au

Hopefully in the near future we are opening offices in Darwin and Townsville, we will keep you up to date with changes as they happen.

Peter Walters Address: PO Box 395 Goodna QLD 4300 Email: peter@youngdiggers.com.au Mob: 0416 108 450

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EX STONE-PILLOW

Saturday 17th October 2015 I received a call for help from none other than our own Vaz and Ruby and he’s daughter ‘Chook’ and what a team they where, we delivered merchandise and flyers to promote and educate and support other non profit organisations and the locals on what we stand for. Congratulations to Ruby’s team for a champion effort.

Well hellooo Young Diggers, friends and family, my name is Jodie Habchi and I’ve been appointed events organiser by Mr J And Mr P, who also said go ahead and do what you want.......... I think they’re still wondering if they made a good decision or not, After freaking out about making a good impression to all members of Young Diggers and friends, something unexpected happened upon being thrown in the deep (could not have asked for a better challenge). Here are some of the events I’ve jumped into over the last few months...

WAHOBA CHARITY GOLF DAY

Friday 25th September 2015At the WAHOBA charity golf day at The Keperra country golf club, organised by Owen Morrison secretary (West Arana Hills Old Boys Association). The turnout for the barbecue breakfast was great thanks to Col for helping me cook up a storm. For the members who attended I would like to make a special thanks,

Social Events

in particular to the two members Jane Prentice federal member for Ryan and Mark Furner state member for Ferny Grove for your contribution including all other parties together all up we raised approximately $5000. Also a special thanks to a star attraction Mr Tank Habchi who with his owner Adonis made the day even more special. Thank you very much for your presents it was greatly appreciated.

“The best feeling in the world is watching things finally fall into place,

after watching them fall apart for so long.”

— Young Diggers.

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VETERAN BBQ HOSTED BY GO2 (DAY IN THE PARK) Sunday 18th October 2015Next task at hand was the veterans BBQ day at Burringbar park Chermside near the Kedron-Wavell RSL....... A huge thank you to Brett and Yogi, Peter and Tucker, Matt and Hades, Carley and Digger, Adonis and Tank, Vaz and Ruby who were still going strong from the previous night and introducing my boy Kodi. Great effort to everyone who attended the day. I believe we met a lot of new future members that day and we got a lot of people on board with what we’re trying to achieve all the dogs got lots of scratches and pats from children and adults walking past maybe more so than the petting zoo next door.

WEEKLY BBQ LUNCH AT THE BUNKER

16 Thurlow St Newmarket QLD Every WednesdayLast but not least, every Wednesday we still get together at the bunker and have a barbecue for lunch please bring your friends your family your neighbours down and have a barbecue and a chat or you can rearrange some furniture, build cupboards, paint a room or just hang out. Any event or an idea on how to raise money for Young Diggers to get the word out there about PTSD and the dog squad please throw any and all ideas on the table.

SOCIAL EVENTS — CONTINUED

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F un ways to improve your life, your mental health, your relationships and your

happiness!! Ever feel there are times in your life when you feel down, something is missing or just not being fulfilled? If that is how you are feeling at the moment take this 30 day challenge and note the difference it will make in your life. The activities are only short, not expensive and really don’t take much effort but the benefits will be fantastic. Are you ready for the challenge…

…To step out? Often we get caught up repeating the same patterns over and over again…boring! Try something new and step out of the roundabout that you’re travelling round and round! Think of it as an adventure!

…To step up? Learn something new about yourself, others or the world we live in. See yourself from a new perspective. Try something different! Explore the unknown! Strive to be the best version of you as you can be!

30 Day ChallengeSTEP OUT, STEP UP AND STEP IN!

30 DAY CHALLENGE !!

…To step in? Can you see people around you who are suffering or going through a difficult time? Step in and focus on others rather than your own problems/concerns. Listen attentively to another’s stories and you will learn more about yourself!

Here is the challenge…For the next thirty days, have a go at doing at least one of these activities each day and see where it takes you. In a book or journal, write a few words about what you did and how you felt. Sometimes, your experience may be different to your expectations…go with it…there is learning in all that we do. Do all of these activities or repeat ones that have been successful for you. Remember challenge yourself and extend your comfort zone and you will be surprised by the results!! Good luck!!

£ Listen to the story of an elderly person or random person you might see at a shopping centre, hospital or nursing home.

£ Pass on an inspirational card to someone you know or don’t know.

£ Stand up for an elderly or pregnant person on a train or bus.

£ Take a shopping trolley back to the trolley bay for an elderly person or a busy Mum.

£ Pay for a coffee for the next person behind you.

£ Cook a special dinner/lunch or breakfast for someone special.

£ Surprise someone with a small gift. £ Send a thank you note, card, email

or text to someone for something they have done for you and you would like to acknowledge them for it.

£ Offer to babysit for a busy Mum so that she has some free time.

£ Tell someone they have a nice smile. £ Complement someone on the clothes

they are wearing. (No sarcasm!) £ Write a letter, text or email to someone

you have lost touch with for a while. £ Write a poem or verse or inspirational

quote, put it in an envelope and leave it on a table at a restaurant, coffee shop or café.

£ Buy a grocery gift card for someone you know who is struggling at the moment

£ Offer to do some voluntary work at a hospital or aged care facility.

£ Leave a thank you note for someone who has served you.

£ Chat to someone you don’t know at the supermarket.

£ Volunteer at a charity store or animal refuge.

£ Leave an inspirational book (and a message) for someone else to read.

£ Invite a friend or family member to the movies.

£ Be really grateful (more than usual) when someone does something nice for you.

£ Give some stuff away to a charity £ Ask for some advice — it will

make people feel important. £ Learn something new…

pursue an interest or hobby! £ Join a group of like-minded people. £ Tell someone how they inspired you. £ Ask someone about their family… listen

— even if you have heard the story before. £ Walk your neighbour’s dog. £ Repeat something good that you

know or have heard about someone. £ Cook a batch of cakes or biscuits and

gift wrap them for friends or family. £ Surprise your family by doing some

extra chores around the house. £ Ask a neighbour or friend if there is

something that needs to be done around the house that you can do. (Gardening, shopping, walking the dog.)

Contact Kathy Donaldson for more information and to let her know how you challenged yourself.Kathy Donaldson Career/Life Coach www.kathydonaldson.com.au kathy@kathydonaldson.com.au

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R anger is now a healthy, happy 16 week old puppy. Found wandering lost and alone

in the rugged bushland around Abercrombie Caves. At least 20km from any roads he simply appeared out of nowhere.

We have named him ‘Ranger’ because this area has an infamous history as a hideout for bushrangers such as Ben Hall, Frank Gardiner and the Ribbon Gang.

Saving RangerSHARED AND LOVED BY EVERYONE

When found Ranger was emaciated and had a severely broken front leg which he was dragging along the ground. A local family randomly bush walking in the area were shocked to find him, they gently carried him to their car. Once safe on the lap of a caring person they said he actually he breathed a huge sigh, almost like a sigh of relief, then he slept all the way to Bathurst — he was totally exhausted.

Ranger was taken straight to a local vet to be examined — his left foreleg had multiple fractures and he had significant nerve paralysis and muscle wastage. Further examination of his ribs and hips indicated that he had not eaten anything for at least 4 or 5 days.

Ranger’s significant injury would make him almost ‘unadoptable’ and his future was very grim. After having had such a terrible struggle for survival in his short life, it just wouldn’t be right to turn away and not help him.

Bathurst Correctional Centre and the Young Diggers agreed to adopt Ranger and give him the veterinary treatment he needed. Ranger was the perfect Ambassador for the Young Diggers - he had proven he was tough, a fighter and a survivor, overcoming extreme adversity just like our Aussie soldiers. Any one of our brave diggers could relate to Ranger’s struggle to survive when the odds were completely stacked against him.

The University of Veterinary Studies in Sydney agreed to help and attempted to save his leg. The care and compassion they gave to our little boy was wonderful, he stayed in hospital for six days but unfortunately specialist orthopaedic surgeons could not save his leg and it had to be amputated.

The amazing volunteers from German Shepherd Dog (GSD) Rescue put up their hand to help Ranger also. They travelled from Sydney to Bathurst and back to Sydney with our injured boy delivering him to the University for his specialised surgery. Of course, Jo and Heather from GSD Rescue also fell in love with our brave baby boy and continued to check on his progress though out his stay in hospital.

Photo Above: This is the area known as Groves Creek Falls, Abercrombie Caves, where Ranger was found by a family out bush walking for the day.

Photo Above: Ranger the day I first met him – finally getting some much needed medical care and attention.

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We are amazed every day by Ranger’s resilience as he grows stronger and stronger. He manages so well on three legs and is in such good spirits, he is now learning to be a puppy again — able to play, cuddle and feel love instead of pain, fear and loneliness. He loves, and is loved, by everyone he comes across — he has a ‘special quality’ about him that melts everyone’s heart in an instant.

Ranger represents all rescue dogs and the hope that they can have a bright future. He has his own Facebook page called ‘Saving Ranger’ and we are posting stories about his progress on a regular basis. We hope everyone can follow and support his amazing story as he becomes ‘a dog for all diggers’.

He began his life as a dog no-one wanted — abandoned in the bush to fend for himself, only nine weeks old, in pain and suffering with his leg fractured in several places. He will become a dog to be shared and loved by everyone, proving that every creature is deserving of our care, compassion and kindness.

Photo Above: The day Ranger came home to Bathurst. We were all so happy to see him back and in such good spirits (cheeky as ever).

Photo Above: After a busy day he is sound asleep sucking his tongue!

SAVING RANGER — CONTINUED

Young Diggers Updates STAY IN TOUCH

Keep up to date by joining The Young Diggers Facebook page.

For further information visit: youngdiggers.com.au

Contact us on: info@youngdiggers.com.au

Scan here to join today

Young diggers are seeking help from members in any state who would be willing to foster dogs when their owners are ill or in hospital.

To apply, please complete the Dog Foster Carer Application form at — www.youngdiggers.com.au/dog-squad-applications

HelpWantedYoung diggers are seeking help from members in any state who would be willing to foster dogs when their owners are ill or in hospital.

To apply, please complete the Dog Foster Carer Application form at — www.youngdiggers.com.au/dog-squad-applications

HelpHelpWantedWantedHelpWantedHelp

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PTSD, STRESS, ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION

Coaching and Hypnotherapy

E very day we hear of people who are suffering from stress, anxiety, depression

and PTSD. Sadly the number of people that suffer from these symptoms is growing.

In a lot of cases the symptoms of stress, anxiety, depression and PTSD are as a result of trauma and stress that has been inflicted in the past. It is now widely accepted that to resolve this the patient has to know that it is over and they are safe and that they have power over the situations that have controlled them in the past.

The use of hypnotherapy has been very useful to resolve this type of trauma but there has been no clear process on how to use it. “The Richards Trauma Process” now provides a clear, fast and effective process to resolve the stress, anxiety, depression and PTSD caused by past incidents.

Indication or Symptoms of this type of issue can be:

• Unable to sleep

• Jumpy at loud noises

• Overanxious

• Tense all of the time

• Not able to function

• Angry or sad most of the time

• Can’t see a future or a feeling of hopelessness

These are all symptoms of a person caught up in the cycle of stress, depression and anxiety. Traditionally these are dealt with by being given anti-depressants. This is a “band-aid” solution at best. However, now suffers can break free from this cycle quickly and effectively and without the use of drugs with a unique, cutting edge hypnosis process called “The Richards Trauma Process”.

Often stress, depression and anxiety is caused by past events that have not been processed in the brain. The experts agree that to break free from this cycle you have to know that it is over and safe and that you are empowered to have control over the past events in your life.

The Richards Trauma Process breaks the cycle of stress, depression, anxiety and even PTSD in three hypnosis sessions. In just three appointments with one week apart from each appointment you can quickly and safely gain control of your life. You do not need to be a victim of your history.

You can control the past events that have been controlling your life using The Richards Process Trauma Therapy.

When you are caught up in the cycle of stress, depression and anxiety you are removed from a state of calm. Your muscles are tensed and you are in a state of high alert.

With three Appointments “The Richards Trauma Process” moves you from this state of extreme emotions to a state of calm. Best of all you stay in this state of calm. It’s not temporary but permanent.

The Richards Trauma Process

This process allows patients to overcome the results of their past trauma and stress quickly and safely. In just three appointments, one week apart patients are able to overcome the negative results of past trauma and stress.

What Are The Appointments?

Appointment 1: We all take on limiting beliefs and programs about ourselves. Most of these come from an early age and can be acquired from others and past experience. Often these are not true and they limit us and our belief about ourselves. In this appointment these limiting beliefs and underlying programs are removed and you begin to realise how magnificent you really are.

Appointment 2: We empower you to have the power over past events that have been controlling you. We don’t get you to relive the past events but you can go back to those events and have control over them.

Appointment 3: When you are in the cycle of stress, depression and anxiety it’s hard to see a future. Now that the cycle is broken we help you to see a future, a future that you can create.

For the past two years at Transformations Coaching and Hypnotherapy we have been using this process with great success and believe that we can assist you with “Breaking Your Cycle”, and beginning your full recovery.

If you would like to know more about “The Richards Trauma Therapy” please give us a call:

Steve Gardiner Phone: 0428 457 236 Email: steve@transformyou.com.au Located in Brisbane

Temporary but Permanent

Calm

Anxiety Depression

The Richards Trauma Process

Normal State — Fluctuates with daily stresses but returns to calm when ‘drama’ has passed.

Hypervigilent — Stressed Waiting for ‘something to happen’

Appointment 1- REMOVE -

Appointment 2- EMPOWER -

Appointment 3- FUTURE -

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H ave you or a family member ever served in the Australian or New Zealand Defence

Forces? Do you need someone on your side who will listen and to talk to? Have you or a family member ever been injured — not just physically — whilst in the service? Our mission is to help you and your family make informed choices to enhance and maintain quality of life.

Our purposeIt’s simple. Too many serving and ex-serving personnel and their families have difficulties coping with the stresses and fall-out of military service. Our purpose is to provide you with the help you need.

Our focusOur motto is ‘It’s about YOU’. It is important to recognise you are and always will be a valued member of our community, irrespective of your injuries and experiences you have endured. We are completely committed to providing exceptional help and advice. Our specialty is information and support — it is our core focus. We provide a personalised and professional information and support service, with ‘quick results’ and ‘keeping you informed’ being our main objective. We have an in-house Pensions Officer and a national network of pensions and advocacy contacts who can assist you with assessing and reviewing your entitlements, for free.

It’s Not About Us — It’s About YOU Suicide Warning SignsTHE YOUNG DIGGERS BEYOND BLUE

You are not alone!We will listen and provide you and your family with information and assistance, so you can make informed choices about today and for your future, which will ultimately lead to securing and maintaining quality of life.

Our difference• We are innovative!

• We listen!

• We take action!

With your approval and assistance, we will investigate and pursue issues raised in an attempt to enhance your quality of life or right any wrongs. We closely scrutinise government agendas and act as your voice to ensure welfare, pension and advocacy services and entitlements are maintained and improved for the future.

Contact Young DiggersFind our contact details on page 21 of the Young Diggers journal — October edition.

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THE AUSTRALIAN WAR ANIMAL MEMORIAL

Purple Poppies

100 YEARS — LEST WE FORGET Australia was one of many countries during WWI that used animals to aid its fight against its enemies. In fact both Axis and Allies used millions of various types in places as remote as the shores of Gallipoli to the sands of Beersheba, to the rain & mud of no man’s land in France, to the frozen Alps.

These animals, Australia’s four legged diggers had no choice in, if or where they served and many thousands gave the ultimate sacrifice. Sadly one thing they all had in common weather a Waler horse or carrier pigeon all but a few ever returned home. The service of Animals in warfare continues to the present day. Lest we forget our four legged diggers services too.

During our nation’s history Australian war horses were shipped half a world away. Many did not survive the arduous sea journey succumbed to disease, others to the wounds of battles. Like the men who rode them they survived on limited rations, became battle-weary and tired during the brutal campaigns. The death toll has never been calculated, but the cost of War in horse flesh has surely been enormous.

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old; Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning. We will remember them.

M ost people are unaware that as well as the traditional red poppy worn to mark

the Armistice Day of 11 November 1918, that there is also the purple poppy, remembering animals that died during conflict.

To commemorate all the animal deeds and sacrifices in war, the Australian War Animal Memorial Organisation (AWAMO) has issued a purple poppy, which can be worn alongside the traditional red one.

Just like other countries including the United Kingdom people are encouraged to wear the purple poppy alongside the traditional red poppy as a reminder that both humans and animals have and continue to serve.

Please wear a Purple Poppy and help raise awareness of those forgotten hero’s. Lest we forget, four legged diggers served too.

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A health professional may diagnose PTSD if a person has a number of symptoms in each of these areas for one month or more. The symptoms usually lead to significant distress and interfere with the person’s ability to work or study, as well as his/her social relationships.

It’s not unusual for people with PTSD to experience other mental health conditions at the same time. These may have developed directly in response to the traumatic event or have followed the PTSD. These additional problems — most commonly depression, anxiety and alcohol or drug use – are more likely to occur if PTSD has persisted for a long time.

Talk to your doctor or another health professional at any time if you feel very distressed or your reactions are interfering with your relationships, work or study and ability to participate in day-to-day activities.

How common is PTSD and who experiences it?Anyone can develop PTSD following a traumatic event, but people are at greater risk if the event involved deliberate harm (such as physical or sexual assault) or they have had repeated traumatic experiences (such as childhood sexual abuse or living in a war zone). Apart from the event itself, risk factors for developing PTSD include a past history of trauma or previous mental health problems, as

Well as ongoing stressful life events after the trauma and an absence of social supports.

Around one million Australians experience PTSD in any one year, and 12 per cent of Australians will experience PTSD in their lifetime.1 Serious accidents are one of the leading causes of PTSD in Australia.

P ost-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a particular set of reactions that can

develop in people who have been through a traumatic event. That is, they have experienced or witnessed an event, which threatened their life or safety, or that of others around them, and led to feelings of intense fear, helplessness or horror.

This can be a car or other serious accident, physical or sexual assault, war or torture, or disasters such as bush fires or floods. Other life changing situations such as being retrenched, getting divorced or the expected death of an ill family member are very distressing and may cause mental health problems, but are not events that can cause PTSD.

Signs and symptoms People with PTSD often experience feelings of panic or extreme fear, which may resemble those sensations that were felt during the traumatic event. A person with PTSD has four main types of difficulties.

1. Re-living the traumatic event: Through unwanted and recurring memories, often in the form of vivid images and nightmares. There may be intense emotional or physical reactions, such as sweating, heart palpitations or panic when reminded of the event.

2. Being overly alert or wound up: Sleeping difficulties, irritability, lack of concentration, becoming easily startled and constantly being on the lookout for signs of danger.

3. Avoiding reminders of the event: Deliberately avoiding activities, places, people, thoughts or feelings associated with the event because they bring back painful memories.

4. Feeling emotionally numb: Losing interest in day-to-day activities, feeling cut off and detached from friends and family, or feeling emotionally flat and numb.

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)WHAT IS PTSD?

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Helping yourself to recover from PTSD There are also many ways in which the person can assist in his/her recovery. It’s important to remember that recovery is not something that happens all at once, nor is it straightforward. Symptoms of PTSD can be manageable for a while, then return at times of stress. Anniversary dates, news coverage of similar events or going through a major change like a new job or relationship breakdown can lead to problems coming back or getting worse for a time. For most people, however, the following “DOs and DON’Ts” will help:

Do ✓ Spend time with people who care.

✓ Give yourself time.

✓ Find out about the impact of trauma and what to expect.

✓ Try to keep a routine going (e.g. work, study).

✓ Return to normal activities.

✓ Talk about how you feel or what happened when ready.

✓ Do things that help you relax.

✓ Do things that you enjoy.

Other tips to promote recovery • Set realistic goals – don’t take on too much,

but try to find goals that keep you motivated.

• Review and reward progress — notice even the small steps.

• Talk about the ups and downs of recovery with friends, family and the health professionals involved in your care.

• Have a plan to maintain positive changes and plans to deal with times of stress or reminders of the trauma.

Don’t ✗ Use alcohol or drugs to try to cope

✗ Keep yourself busy and work too much

✗ Engage in stressful family or work situations

✗ Withdraw from family and friends

✗ Stop yourself from doing things that you enjoy

✗ Avoid talking about what happened

✗ Take risks

What treatments are available for PTSD?Many people experience some of the symptoms of PTSD in the first couple of weeks after a traumatic event, but most recover on their own or with the help of family and friends. For this reason, treatment does not usually start until about two weeks after a traumatic experience. Even though formal treatment may not commence, it is important during those first few days and weeks to get whatever help is needed. This might include simple information and advice on self care. Support from family and friends is very important for most people.

Trying, as far as possible, to minimise other stressful life experiences allows the person to focus more on his/her recovery.

If a person feels very distressed at any time after a traumatic event, he/she should talk to a doctor or other health professional. If a person experiences symptoms of PTSD that persist beyond two weeks, a doctor or a mental health professional may recommend starting treatment for PTSD.

Effective treatments are available. Most involve psychological treatment (talking therapy), but medication can also be prescribed in some cases. Generally, it’s best to start with psychological treatment rather than use medication as the first and only solution to the problem.

The cornerstone of treatment for PTSD involves confronting the traumatic memory and working through thoughts and beliefs associated with the experience. Trauma-focused psychological treatments can reduce PTSD symptoms, lessen anxiety and depression, and improve a person’s quality of life. They are also effective for people who have experienced prolonged or repeated traumatic events, but more time may be needed in these circumstances.

Drug treatments are not recommended within four weeks of symptoms appearing unless the severity of the person’s distress cannot be managed by psychological means alone

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How to help someone recover from PTSD As a family member, carer or friend, you should be involved, wherever possible, in the assessment and treatment of the person with PTSD. PTSD often impacts on the whole family and it is important that your needs and perspective are taken into account throughout treatment. This can only be done if you think it is appropriate and with the approval of the person who has experienced the traumatic event.

If you are finding the situation very distressing, you may seek treatment for these issues in your own right. It can be very difficult to watch someone you care about struggle with the distress caused by a traumatic event. You may find yourself worrying constantly about the person’s wellbeing and feel helpless when confronted with his/her emotions.

People with PTSD can often seem disinterested or distant as they try not to think or feel in order to block out painful memories, so you may feel shut out. They may stop participating in family life, ignore your offers of help or become irritable. It is important to remember that this behaviour is part of the problem; it’s not about you. The person with PTSD probably needs your support, but doesn’t know what he/she needs or how to ask for help. There are many ways you can help:

• Listen and show that you care. Sometimes, people say things that are meant to be helpful, but instead just leave the person feeling more isolated and misunderstood. Examples of such unhelpful statements are “You just need to get on with your life” and “I know how you feel”.

• You can encourage your family member to share their thoughts and feelings about what is happening to them. Remember that you are not the person’s therapist and don’t have to find solutions. You also do not have to hear all the details of the trauma – in many cases, it is best not to. If necessary, let the person know that you do not feel strong enough to hear all the details, while at the same time reassuring the person about your support and understanding.

• Remember that providing support doesn’t have to be complicated. It often involves small things like spending time together, having a cup of tea, chatting about day-today life or giving the person a hug.

• Some people find it helpful to have time to themselves after a traumatic experience. If this is the case for the person, try to give him/ her some space and time alone when requested. Encourage a balance between time spent alone and time spent with others.

• Encourage your family member to seek help and stay focused on recovery. The person may not realise that he/she needs help or may find it hard to admit that help is needed. The person may be worried about being vulnerable or having to talk about what happened. Getting professional help can sometimes be difficult, as it often means facing painful memories. Commenting on positive changes or small steps taken by the person can also help him/her to remain hopeful about recovery.

Anniversaries and other stressful times Anniversaries of traumatic events like the September 11 terrorist attacks in America, a battle in the Vietnam War, major bush fires and floods, and tragedies may trigger some unpleasant emotions in people, even if they were not directly affected or involved. Seeing images in the media again, or recalling your reaction at the time, may be upsetting. You may also find other times difficult, especially when you are experiencing other stress in your life such as financial, work, health, or relationship problems. At those times, it is especially important that you look after yourself in the ways discussed in this fact sheet.

Tips to help you cope with anniversaries and other difficult times • Recognise that an anniversary can be a

difficult period. Give yourself permission to feel some distress; it is perfectly normal and understandable.

• Try to limit your exposure to media coverage about the anniversary, as well as your conversations about it with other people.

• Keep your normal routine going, but allow yourself some time out if you need it.

• Plan your days and build in plenty of relaxing and enjoyable activities.

• Spend time with other people – especially those you care about – and don’t be afraid to ask for support if you need it.

• Look after yourself. Get plenty of rest and exercise and eat sensibly; cut back on stimulants such as tea, coffee, chocolate, cola and cigarettes.

• If you drink alcohol, keep an eye on how much you drink.

• Try to relax. Listen to soothing music, go for a walk, take a hot bath, or do whatever works for you.

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Psychologists are health professionals who provide psychological therapies (talking therapies) such as cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT). Clinical psychologists specialise in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of mental health problems. Psychologists and clinical psychologists are not doctors and cannot prescribe medication in Australia.

Psychiatrists are doctors who have undergone further training to specialise in mental health. They can make medical and psychiatric assessments, conduct medical tests, provide therapy and prescribe medication. Psychiatrists often use psychological treatments such as cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT) and/ or medication. If the anxiety is severe and hospital admission is required, a psychiatrist will be in charge of the person’s treatment.

The cost of getting treatment from a health professional varies. However, in the same way that people can get a Medicare rebate when they see a doctor, they can also get part or all of the consultation fee subsidised when they see a mental health professional for treatment of anxiety or depression.

See beyondblue’s ‘Getting help – How much does it cost?’ fact sheet at www.beyondblue.org.au

WHERE TO FIND MORE INFORMATION Beyondblue www.beyondblue.org.au 1300 22 4636 Information on depression and anxiety, available treatments and where to get help. You can visit www.beyondblue.org.au/ anxietysupport for a list of services specifically for people experiencing anxiety, their friends and family. These services include national and state-based information and referral lines, face-to-face treatment and support services, and links to online information, support and treatment.

Lifeline www.lifeline.org.au 13 11 14 Access to crisis support, suicide prevention and mental health support services. Mindhealthconnect www.mindhealthconnect.org.au Access to trusted, relevant mental health care services, online programs and resources.

Mindhealthconnectwww.mindhealthconnect.org.auAccess to trusted, relevant mental health care services, online programs and resources.

facebook.com/beyondblue twitter.com/beyondblue

• Look after yourself. This may be the most important thing you can do to help your family member. Supporting someone who has been through a traumatic event can take a toll on you, sometimes so much that your own health can be affected and you can no longer help the person effectively. It is crucial that you take time out and reach out to friends and other supportive people in your community

Where to find help Most people who have experienced a traumatic event will go through times when they find things difficult or challenging and it is important to understand the benefits of professional assistance. Don’t think you need to be struggling or suffering severely to access help.

People who have been through a traumatic event may, as a result of that event, come into contact with various help services. For example, when a disaster occurs, governments activate their recovery arrangements and provide a range of support services to assist affected individuals and communities, including access to counselling and mental health services. If such assistance is available, it’s a good idea to utilise it. However, there are many other services and health professionals who can assist.

A General Practitioner (GP) is a good person with whom to discuss your concerns in the first instance. A good GP can:

• Make a diagnosis

• Discuss available treatments

• Work with the person to draw up a Mental Health Treatment Plan so he or she can get a Medicare rebate for psychological treatment

• Provide brief counselling or, in some cases, talking therapy

• Prescribe medication

• Refer a person to a mental health specialist such as a psychologist or psychiatrist.

It is recommended that people consult their regular GP or another GP in the same clinic, as medical information is shared within a practice.

When seeking psychological therapy, mental health practitioners trained in trauma-focused psychological therapy should be the first choice. Most commonly, mental health practitioners with this kind of training are psychologists, although psychiatrists and clinical social workers may also have received such training.

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A VVCS summary for veteran support officersKey messages:

● VVCS is available 24/7 by phoning 1800 011 046 (free calls from landlines and some mobile phones). ● VVCS is not just a crisis hotline, it offers ongoing counselling and support for war and service-related mental health and wellbeing conditions i.e. anxiety, depression, anger, sleep difficulties, PTSD, alcohol or substance misuse, relationship and family issues.

● VVCS services are free, offered nationwide to either individuals, couples and/or families. ● VVCS services are delivered by experienced mental health counsellors who understand military culture.

● VVCS conducts group treatment programs, and offers case management services if required. ● VVCS has a strong commitment to protecting the client’s right to confidentiality and privacy. Clinical information is not released to the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, Department of Defence or other agencies without informed client consent.

Further information on confidentiality and privacy can be found at: www.vvcs.gov.au

VVCS is available to: ● Current and former serving Australian Defence Force veterans and peacekeepers; ● Current and former Australian Defence Force members who have: served in domestic or international disaster relief operations; served in border protection operations; served as a submariner; been medically discharged or have been involved in a training accident that resulted in serious injury to any person;

● Partners and dependent children (aged 5 to 26) of members listed above; ● Partners, dependent children and parents of members killed in service-related incidents; ● The ex-partners of Vietnam veterans within five years of separation; ● Sons and daughters (of any age) of Vietnam veterans; ● War Widow[er]s; ● Holders of a DVA Health Card – for All Conditions (Gold) or a DVA Health Card – for Specific Conditions (White) for specified mental health conditions; and

● Participants in the Study of Health Outcomes in Aircraft Maintenance Personnel (F-111) scheme.

Complete list of eligible clients can be found at: www.vvcs.gov.au or call 1800 011 046.

Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling ServiceA service founded by Vietnam veterans

1800 011 046 I www.vvcs.gov.au I

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