After serving in all three services (Navy, Army, and Air Force), over a combined period of 32 years and 7x Operational Deployments overseas, Shane was medically discharged due to mental health; namely PTSD, Major Depressive Disorder, and Anxiety. His mental health cost
him his marriage and family, but he continues to strive for a positive and healthy life.
Shane sought help and support through several Veteran Support Services after his discharge, and continues to engage and support Veterans so that he can give back. This engagement through supporting others helped him get through the dark times.
Shane said that first step reaching out for help can be the hardest.
“This can make a big difference to a veteran – coming from personal experience as a veteran who has needed help in the past. I found that really daunting, to make the first phone call. I had never needed help beforehand. But what’s important is knowing that people understand the challenges and knowing that the community is supporting me
and my colleagues and recognises the service we have made to our country.”
Shane is in a much better place now and encourages all veterans to be brave and ask.
Better Together 💕
