COMBATING Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is something the nation is just getting its head around according to Victoria Cross recipient Keith Payne.
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And he should know. Mr Payne has suffered with PTSD for decades.
He was special guest at the launch of the Veterans Surfing Program initial pilot program at Gerroa on Wednesday.
The 10-week program, co-ordinated by Rusty Moran, of Gerringong Surf School, is funded by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and uses surfing as a way for veterans to overcome their PTSD.
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"People don't realise post traumatic stress goes right back to World War I," Mr Payne said.
"When our diggers came home they had post traumatic stress.
"What the government did to look after them was to lock them into a lunatic asylum.
"They had a men's shed and they made wooden boxes for themselves and they were planted in unmarked graves.
"Thankfully we have come a long way from there but there is still more to do.
Thankfully we have come a long way in combating post traumatic stress but there is still more to do.
- Keith Payne VC
"And today younger veterans are travelling the country trying to go through records and find where those fellows are buried."
A group named in his honour, the Keith Payne VC Veterans Benefit Group is overseeing the governance of the surf program
Mr Payne said PTSD is something that is hitting the nation.
"It's not only veterans or serving personnel who will suffer post traumatic stress, it's out first responders, our police, our ambos and firies," he said.
"It is hitting the nation and thankfully a lot more people are now understanding it.
"Look what we've had to deal with in the last 12 months - bushfires and now COVID.
It's not only veterans or serving personnel who will suffer post traumatic stress, it's out first responders, our police, our ambos and firies.
- Keith Payne VC
"People used to say there was no such thing as PTSD.
"I can tell you there is - I've had her, I know her. For a long time.
"It's great to see a program like this get up and running and it's great to be starting with the military.
"This is going to be a great national asset right through the community groups who come in contact with PTSD.
"I think big things can come from this small group - pass on the word, let people know and enjoy what you're doing, that's what this program is all about.
"Rehabilitation is the key to self respect and the key to bring you back into order to take your PTSD away. And most importantly stops suicide at the end of the track."
The program will also provide data for a clinical study by the Western Sydney University, analysing the scientific benefits from surfing on those suffering from PTSD and depression.
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Robert Crawford
Robert Crawford is a senior journalist at the South Coast Register, for Australian Community Media . Everyone's got a story, what's yours? Email robert.crawford@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Robert Crawford is a senior journalist at the South Coast Register, for Australian Community Media . Everyone's got a story, what's yours? Email robert.crawford@austcommunitymedia.com.au
