In this second part of the Invisible Injuries podcast with Robert Kilsby, Robert and Andy Fermo continue the conversation by diving into Robert’s post-military challenges, including his struggles with unraveling mental health and finding purpose after service. Robert recounts his transition from the military and how his drive for excellence kept him going, but he eventually hit a breaking point, leading him to seek help for his mental health. He describes the difficulty of finding the right support and the frustration of navigating the mental health system. However, through persistence, Robert was able to connect with a specialist who helped him better understand his PTSD and how to cope.

The episode then shifts focus to Robert’s passion for motorsport and how he found healing through racing. His experiences in motorsport, particularly tarmac rallying, became a critical part of his recovery, giving him a renewed sense of purpose. Robert shares how his work with Mountain Road Racing, a team that supports veterans through motorsport, is now helping others like him. He discusses the challenges of setting up the team and the importance of providing veterans with meaningful experiences. The episode concludes with Robert's reflections on resilience, coping mechanisms, and his mission to give veterans a chance to rediscover their passion and engage with life once again.

Key Takeaway

• Struggling with Purpose - Robert struggled to find purpose after leaving the military, leading to feelings of unraveling.
• Coping Mechanisms - Despite his PTSD, Robert’s strong coping mechanisms helped him push forward, though they eventually needed professional support.
• Seeking Help for Others - Robert initially sought mental health support for the sake of his family, not recognising his own need for help.
• Importance of Persistence - Persistence in finding the right mental health support made a significant difference in Robert’s journey.
• Motorsport as Healing - Motorsport, particularly tarmac rallying, became a way for Robert to rediscover his purpose and passion.
• Veteran Support - Through his work with Mountain Road Racing, Robert now helps other veterans engage with life and find meaning through motorsport.
• Building a Support System - Surrounding yourself with the right team, including medical and professional support, is essential to overcoming challenges.
• Engagement in Recovery - The key to recovery for veterans is finding activities that engage them, helping them reconnect with life outside the military.
• Structured Challenges - The structure and challenges of motorsport provide a familiar and supportive environment for veterans.
• Legacy of Support - Robert is building a legacy of veteran support through Mountain Road Racing, offering experiential opportunities to others.

Contact - Robert Kilsby
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mountainroadracing
Website: https://www.mountainroadracing.au/about-us
Help Lines Open Arms (VVCS) | Lifeline | RedSix app

"RESPECT, NO POLITICS, WE'RE VOLUNTEERS"

Disclaimer: The accounts and stories are "Real lived experiences" of our guests some of the content may trigger Post Traumatic Stress (PTS) symptoms in some of our audience. Feedback regarding other organisations, courses and initiatives remains largely unsensored. Whether its good or bad they remain the OPINION of our guests and their experiences it is important in building an accurate statistic on what really happens.
During the course

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In this first part of the Invisible Injuries podcast featuring Robert Kilsby, Andy Fermo dives into the incredible journey of a 21-year Special Forces veteran. Robert opens up about his rural upbringing, his early influences from Scouts, and the Army Reserve, which eventually inspired his path into the military. He reflects on his training, beginning at 17, and his eventual selection for the SAS. Throughout the episode, Robert shares gripping stories of his time in Vietnam, including experiences with scouting, patrolling, and collaborations with U.S. Navy SEALs. His recollections shed light on the camaraderie, challenges, and personal growth he experienced during his service, especially as one of the youngest members in his unit. Despite the traumatic environments, Robert’s attitude of persistence and pursuit of excellence helped him thrive. He emphasises the mindset required to not only survive but excel in high-pressure military operations. As the episode progresses, Andy and Robert explore deeper topics around trauma, the nature of PTSD, and the ways in which soldiers cope both during and after service. The episode sets the stage for a powerful exploration of Robert’s transition from military life to new challenges and self-care in the second part.

Key Takeaways

• Early Preparation - Robert’s rural upbringing and time in Scouts prepared him for military life.
• Pursuit of Excellence | Robert was always driven to be at the "top of the tree," seeking out challenges.
• Scouting as a Skill | Scouting in military operations required not just physical but mental skills, honed through experience.
• Coping Mechanisms | Robert found ways to cope with the pressures of military life, even before fully understanding PTSD.
• Blind Determination | Even without formal military experience, Robert thrived due to his sheer determination during selection.
• Team Trust | The trust between patrol members, especially in dangerous environments, was key to survival and success.
• Adaptation | Learning from others and constantly improving was a theme in Robert’s military career.
• Resilience | Robert’s resilience allowed him to push through the toughest challenges, including mentally.
• Trauma & Ignorance | Many veterans don’t realize the cumulative trauma they’ve experienced until much later.
• Meaningful Work | Finding purpose post-military was essential for Robert’s well-being and sense of fulfillment.

Contact - Robert Kilsby
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mountainroadracing
Website: https://www.mountainroadracing.au/about-us
Help Lines Open Arms (VVCS) | Lifeline | RedSix app

"RESPECT, NO POLITICS, WE'RE VOLUNTEERS"

Disclaimer: The accounts and stories are "Real lived experiences" of our guests some of the content may trigger Post Traumatic Stress (PTS) symptoms in some of our audience. Feedback regarding other organisations, courses and initiatives remains largely unsensored. Whether its good or bad they remain the OPINION of our guests and their experiences it is important in building an accurate statistic on what really happens.
During the course of our conversations sometimes sensitive information may be accidentally mentioned, as such, Invisible Injuries respects the law and sensors any information that may breach Operational Security OPSEC

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In episode 3 and finale of the PTS Growth theme, host Andy Fermo continues his conversation with military veteran John Giampino, delving into the profound impact of his service on his mental health and the journey towards healing. John discusses the moral injury he experienced from the lack of support from his hierarchy, which significantly affected his confidence in leadership and his overall mental health. He recounts the traumatic training incident that led to his PTSD and the subsequent struggles with his physical health, including multiple injuries and surgeries.

John candidly shares his battle with depression and suicidal thoughts following his medical discharge from the army. He describes hitting rock bottom and the turning point when he decided to rebuild his life by starting a carpentry business, which brought him happiness and a renewed sense of purpose. He emphasizes the critical role of the organization "I've Got Your Six" in helping him transition to civilian life by identifying and leveraging the skills he developed in the military.

The conversation highlights the importance of support systems, both from organizations and within the veteran community. John speaks passionately about his work as an ambassador for "I've Got Your Six," advocating for the importance of transitioning programs and the need for veterans to seek help before leaving the service. The episode underscores the theme of “post-traumatic growth,” showcasing John's resilience and commitment to helping other veterans find their path to healing and purpose.

Key Takeaways

Service
1. John’s experience of moral injury due to lack of support from his hierarchy.
2. The traumatic training incident that led to his PTSD.
3. The physical toll of his service, resulting in multiple injuries and surgeries.

Mental Health and Wellbeing
4. John’s battle with depression and suicidal thoughts following his medical discharge.
5. The importance of finding purpose in civilian life to improve mental health and wellbeing.
6. The role of "I've Got Your Six" in helping veterans transition to civilian life.

Self-Care and Positive Mindset
7. Starting a carpentry business brought John happiness and a renewed sense of purpose.
8. The significance of support systems, both organizational and community-based, in the healing process.
9. Advocating for transitioning programs to support veterans before they leave the service.
10. The theme of "post-traumatic growth" as a source of resilience and hope for veterans.

Contact - John Giampino
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/igySIXfoundation
Website: https://igy6.com.au/
Help Lines Open Arms (VVCS) | Lifeline | RedSix app

"RESPECT, NO POLITICS, WE'RE VOLUNTEERS"

Disclaimer: The accounts and stories are "Real lived experiences" of our guests some of the content may trigger Post Traumatic Stress (PTS) symptoms in some of our audience. Feedback regarding other organisations, courses and initiatives remains largely unsensored. Whether its good or bad they remain the OPINION of our guests and their experiences it is important in building an accurate statistic on what really happens.
During the course of our conversations sometimes sensitive information may be accidentally mentioned, as such, Invisible Injuries respects the law and sensors any information that may breach Operational Security OPSEC

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In this episode of the Invisible Injuries Podcast, host Andy Fermo engages in a candid conversation with John Giampino, a military veteran, sharing his profound experiences and the impact of his service on his mental health. The episode unfolds in a conversational tone, structured around Giampino’s deployments, the challenges he faced, and his journey towards healing.

John begins by reflecting on his time in Bougainville, describing it as a relatively positive experience despite the inherent dangers. He shares anecdotes about daily life and the camaraderie among his peers. The narrative shifts to his deployment in East Timor, highlighting the stark differences and the volatile environment. John candidly discusses the emotional toll of witnessing the locals' suffering and the profound impact it had on him, marking the beginning of significant changes in his perspective.

The conversation delves deeper into John's experiences in Afghanistan and the Solomon Islands, emphasizing the constant state of heightened alertness and the psychological strain it imposed. A particularly harrowing training incident is recounted, where John and a fellow soldier narrowly escaped drowning. This incident, coupled with the lack of support from his superiors, marked the onset of his PTSD, leading to a moral injury that profoundly affected his mental health.

Throughout the episode, John shares his journey towards managing PTSD, emphasizing the importance of self-care, seeking help, and the support of his peers. The episode resonates with the theme of “post-traumatic growth,” highlighting John's resilience and his ongoing efforts to find purpose and positivity despite the challenges.

Service
1. John’s positive experience in Bougainville despite the inherent dangers.
2. The stark contrast and volatile environment in East Timor.
3. The constant state of heightened alertness during his deployment in Afghanistan.
Mental Health and Wellbeing
4. The profound emotional impact of witnessing the locals' suffering in East Timor.
5. The psychological strain of a harrowing training incident, marking the onset of PTSD.
6. The lack of support from superiors, leading to a moral injury.
Self-Care and Positive Mindset
7. The importance of seeking help and support from peers in managing PTSD.
8. The role of self-care practices in improving mental health and wellbeing.
9. The significance of finding purpose and positivity despite challenges.
10. The theme of "post-traumatic growth" as a source of resilience and hope.

Contact - John Giampino
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/igySIXfoundation
Website: https://igy6.com.au/
Help Lines Open Arms (VVCS) | Lifeline | RedSix app

"RESPECT, NO POLITICS, WE'RE VOLUNTEERS"

Disclaimer: The accounts and stories are "Real lived experiences" of our guests some of the content may trigger Post Traumatic Stress (PTS) symptoms in some of our audience. Feedback regarding other organisations, courses and initiatives remains largely unsensored. Whether its good or bad they remain the OPINION of our guests and their experiences it is important in building an accurate statistic on what really happens.
During the course of our conversations sometimes sensitive information may be accidentally mentioned, as such, Invisible Injuries respects the law and sensors any information that may breach Operational Security OPSEC

Support the show

In this episode of the Invisible Injuries podcast, host Andy Fermo sits down with John Giampino, a 31-year veteran of the Royal Australian Corps of Transport and an ambassador for "I've Got Your Six." John's extensive military career began with his enlistment in the Melbourne University Regiment and transitioned into full-time service in 1985. He shares his experiences from initial training at Kapooka to various deployments, including peacekeeping missions in Bougainville and East Timor.

John's vivid recollections paint a detailed picture of life in the military, from the rigors of training designed to build resilience and condition soldiers for the demands of service, to the challenges and camaraderie of operational deployments. He discusses the unique aspects of water transport, including the critical role of teamwork and the necessity of being self-reliant while at sea.

A significant portion of the conversation focuses on John's deployment to Bougainville during a time of unrest. He describes the initial shock of landing in a conflict zone and the importance of building trust with the local population, highlighting an incident where his quick action helped rescue a helicopter crew from a crash. John's accounts underscore the unpredictable nature of military operations and the resilience required to navigate them.

The episode also delves into the importance of self-care and mental health for veterans. John discusses the necessity of support networks and the role of organizations like "I've Got Your Six" in providing essential services to veterans. His insights into the mental and emotional challenges faced by service members are invaluable for both veterans and their support networks.

Throughout the episode, Andy and John maintain a conversational tone, balancing the gravity of the topics discussed with moments of light-hearted banter, reflecting the close-knit community within the military. This episode is a compelling listen for veterans, first responders, and anyone interested in the lived experiences of those who serve.

Contact - John Giampino
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/igySIXfoundation
Website: https://igy6.com.au/
Help Lines Open Arms (VVCS) | Lifeline | RedSix app

"RESPECT, NO POLITICS, WE'RE VOLUNTEERS"

Disclaimer: The accounts and stories are "Real lived experiences" of our guests some of the content may trigger Post Traumatic Stress (PTS) symptoms in some of our audience. Feedback regarding other organisations, courses and initiatives remains largely unsensored. Whether its good or bad they remain the OPINION of our guests and their experiences it is important in building an accurate statistic on what really happens.
During the course of our conversations sometimes sensitive information may be accidentally mentioned, as such, Invisible Injuries respects the law and sensors any information that may breach Operational Security OPSEC

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In part 3, the final segment of our chat, Damien (ex NT/VIC Pol Senior Constable ) opens up about the darkest periods of his PTSD, including being housebound and overwhelmed by guilt and shame. He describes his experience with suicidal thoughts and attempts, and the profound impact of feeling like a burden to his family.

A key turning point for Damien was a moment of empathy he felt while watching a press conference, which sparked a flicker of hope. This realisation led him to actively seek out recovery strategies, including mindfulness, breathwork, and self-education.

Andy and Damien discuss the importance of building a personalised toolkit of coping mechanisms, the ongoing journey of managing mental health, and the potential for post-traumatic growth.

Key Takeaways

1. The Emotional Toll of PTSD: The intense feelings of guilt and shame can make individuals feel like a burden to their loved ones, often leading to suicidal ideation.
2. Finding Hope in Unexpected Places: A seemingly small moment of empathy or connection can spark a significant shift in mindset and provide a critical lifeline.
3. Importance of Self-Education: Learning about mental health, neuroplasticity, and recovery strategies can empower individuals to take control of their healing journey.
4. Developing a Personalized Toolkit: Identifying and implementing personalized coping mechanisms, such as mindfulness, breathwork, and gratitude practices, can significantly improve mental health.
5. The Role of Support Systems: Having a supportive community, including family, friends, and mental health professionals, is crucial for recovery.
6. The Journey of Recovery: Recovery is a continuous process that involves both setbacks and progress; resilience and persistence are key.
7. Embracing Vulnerability: Being open to trying new methods and acknowledging one’s vulnerabilities can lead to significant growth and healing.
8. The Impact of Peer Support: Connecting with others who have similar experiences can provide hope and practical guidance for managing PTSD.
9. Self-Compassion: It's essential to practice self-compassion and not compare one's trauma or recovery process to others.
10. The Power of Routine: Establishing a daily routine that includes self-care activities can help maintain mental stability and promote long-term wellness.

Contact - Damien Mullen
Help Lines Open Arms (VVCS) | Lifeline | RedSix app

"RESPECT, NO POLITICS, WE'RE VOLUNTEERS"

Disclaimer: The accounts and stories are "Real lived experiences" of our guests some of the content may trigger Post Traumatic Stress (PTS) symptoms in some of our audience. Feedback regarding other organisations, courses and initiatives remains largely unsensored. Whether its good or bad they remain the OPINION of our guests and their experiences it is important in building an accurate statistic on what really happens.
During the course of our conversations sometimes sensitive information may be accidentally mentioned, as such, Invisible Injuries respects the law and sensors any information that may breach Operational Security OPSEC

Support the show

In part 2 of the interview with ex-Senior Constable Damien Mullen, host Andy Fermo continues to explore the intense and often dangerous situations Damien faced as a police officer in remote areas. Damien shares harrowing stories of life-threatening encounters, including a riot and a deeply traumatic incident on a remote island. He discusses the emotional toll these experiences took on him, leading to a severe PTSD diagnosis. The episode delves into the struggles of accepting the diagnosis, dealing with the stigma, and the journey toward understanding and managing PTSD. Damien's story is a powerful testament to the resilience of first responders and the critical need for mental health support.

I the latter half of the episode Damien's recalls his encounters with violence and trauma in remote policing. He recounts a terrifying riot where he and a colleague had to run for their lives and a distressing case involving a young girl's suicide on a remote island. These experiences led to severe PTSD, which Damien initially struggled to recognise and accept. The episode further explores his journey through the diagnosis, the impact on his personal life, and the challenges of seeking treatment and support.

Key Takeaways

1. The Reality of Remote Policing: Working in remote areas often involves facing life-threatening situations with limited resources and support.
2. The Importance of Community Relationships: Building strong relationships with local communities can be crucial for safety and effective policing.
3. Recognizing PTSD Symptoms: It is essential to acknowledge and recognize the signs of PTSD, even when they gradually creep in.
4. The Stigma of Mental Health Issues: Overcoming the stigma associated with PTSD and seeking help is a significant challenge for first responders.
5. Coping Mechanisms: Finding healthy coping mechanisms, such as community support and therapy, is vital for managing PTSD.
6. The Impact on Family Life: PTSD can severely affect personal relationships and family life, requiring understanding and support from loved ones.
7. The Role of Support Systems: Support from colleagues, family, and mental health professionals is crucial in the recovery process.
8. Adapting to New Realities: Accepting the diagnosis and adapting to new realities is a critical part of the healing journey.
9. The Importance of Self-Care: Developing a self-care plan tailored to individual needs is essential for long-term mental health and well-being.
10. Hope and Recovery: Despite the challenges, it is possible to find hope and achieve recovery with the right support and resources.

Contact - Damien Mullen
Help Lines Open Arms (VVCS) | Lifeline | RedSix app

"RESPECT, NO POLITICS, WE'RE VOLUNTEERS"

Disclaimer: The accounts and stories are "Real lived experiences" of our guests some of the content may trigger Post Traumatic Stress (PTS) symptoms in some of our audience. Feedback regarding other organisations, courses and initiatives remains largely unsensored. Whether its good or bad they remain the OPINION of our guests and their experiences it is important in building an accurate statistic on what really happens.
During the course of our conversations sometimes sensitive information may be accidentally mentioned, as such, Invisible Injuries respects the law and sensors any information that may breach Operational Security OPSEC

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Mindful Meditation and Breath Work with Andy | Focus & Relaxation Techniques

Join Andy in this 30-minute online mindful meditation and breath work session by RSL Active. Learn techniques to increase focus, eliminate distractions, and achieve a state of deep relaxation. Practice purposeful breathing and visualization, all designed to help you calm your mind and enhance your concentration. Perfect for anyone looking to improve their mindfulness and productivity.

00:00 Welcome to Mindful Meditation
00:27 Understanding Mindfulness and Breath Work
01:07 Eliminating Distractions for Better Focus
02:37 Deep Breathing Exercise
05:55 Full Body Relaxation
08:46 Maintaining Focus and Relaxation
10:28 Practical Tips for Staying Focused
13:16 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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