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Trauma – keeping it real: Presentations from two first responders

April 21, 2016 @ 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm

Please join us for an ASTSS function with an informal discussion which will provide us with candid insights into the first hand  experiences of trauma treatment. We will be joined by Kevin S, a retired firefighter and Kevin H, previously an officer serving in the Army. In their own words, our presenters write:

Kevin S:  Due to long term exposure to many and varied critical incidents involving injury and death over 25 years as a fire-fighter, I had succumbed to a debilitating mental disorder. I didn’t know what this mental condition was, or that a firey, including myself could be affected by it. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder will always be a part of me, however I know that along with the professional help I have received and the enduring support of my wife Jo, my three kids and friends, I now have measures in place that have allowed me and will continue to allow me to repair greatly over time. I hope that psychologists that attend this evening may gain some insight into the why this happened to me, how I sought help, what remedies worked best for me, who has helped and supported me, what I do to stay well and where to now, or what future I see. I would ask that they get inside my head for answers to the questions not addressed in a text book.

Kev H: I was a helicopter pilot in the army flying Blackhawks and Chinooks. I was deployed to Afghanistan, Iraq and East Timor during his 20 year career. In 2008 I had a mental breakdown followed by 9 months off work. Leading up to the breakdown I contemplated suicide whilst battling depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress – arguably some of it undiagnosed from 2003. I eventually joined the Queensland Government in 2011, first as a training and checking pilot at Archerfield then as QGAir’s Chief Pilot since July 2014 when QGAir was formed. I kept knowledge of my breakdown confidential until late last year and am now passionate about bringing mental health into the open.

The evening will provide clinicians with food for thought, professional reflection and opportunities for learning and development.

Nibblies provided. Cost: 5 dollars for non members

Format:

6.00 for 6.30 start: Introduction by President ASTSS Robyne le Brocque

6.30-7.15: Facilitated discussion with Kevin and Kev regarding their experience of treatment/ accessing/ effectiveness/thoughts to consider for clinicians.

7.15: Break

7.45: Responses to the discussion facilitated by Grant Devilly

8.15: ASTSS – Where to from here facilitated by Robyne le Brocque

8.30: Finish

All enquiries and registration can be directed to Barb Gonda: barbarago@bigpond.com

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Details

Date:
April 21, 2016
Time:
6:00 pm - 8:30 pm

Organiser

Australasian Society for Traumatic Stress Studies
View Organiser Website

Venue

Yes Psychology, Boardroom, Emirates House
Level 9, 167 Eagle Street
Brisbane, Queensland 4000 Australia
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