Help plan for PTSD victims

A TOWNSVILLE program that provides treatment for military and emergency services personnel diagnosed with post- traumatic stress disorder has launched a campaign to encourage those struggling to reach out for help.

Mater Trauma Recovery Centre program co- ordinator Dr Alana Bowen said staying connected and having meaningful conversations about mental health was the focus of the recovery centre.

“We’ve launched our # watchURmate campaign to encourage military individuals ( current and ex- serving) to notice if someone is struggling and support them,” she said.

“This may involve lending a supportive ear or encouraging them to seek professional help from providers like the recovery centre.” Dr Bowen said the not- for- profit program’s aim was to breakdown walls and stigma surrounding PTSD for everyone.

“We want to get the message out to watch your mate,” she said. “But it’s also about letting others watch over you. If someone expresses concern that they are noticing changes in your behaviour to not just push that aside, to actually have it investigated and speak to someone about it.”

Dr Bowen said the number of military suicides in Townsville was concerning.

“This campaign has come out of the recent suicides that have been happening in Townsville, and the fact that there is still a lot of stigma around mental health.

“I can’t say if the number of suicides is increasing, rather it may be more it is spoken about more.”

Dr Bowen said the stereotype of the “warrior soldier” was often a barrier to soldiers seeking help.

“I think in a sense in the military you do have to be strong and not portray any weakness,” she said. “That serves a purpose when you are on deployment. But then, in some regards, it’s a bit of a barrier to seeking help. They want to maintain that warrior stance the ‘ hey I’m all good’.”

Dr Bowen said the Mater’s recovery centre had helped hundreds of military members diagnosed with PTSD and their families.

“We have seen time and time again the power of meaningful connection and our vision is to promote this message within the Townsville community,” she said.

The recovery centre offers an eight- week group therapy program.

To learn more follow the centre on Facebook or Instagram.