Sharing stories without judgement helps journey

First responders are known the world over for looking after people's physical well being, often without thought for their mental health. However, a newly formed group in Warragul is trying to change that.
Led by Warragul RSL, the Gippsland Wellbeing Support Group for former defence personnel and first responders meets at the RSL clubrooms in Albert St on the third Thursday of the month.
Each person is invited to say as much or as little as they like, sharing past and present experiences.
The group is just returning to its pre COVID numbers.
The program is interspersed with yoga and meditation and various guest speakers.
Warragul RSL president Ben Vahland founded the group which originally met at Drouin RSL.
Ben is a former Navy veteran and now a member of Victoria Police.
"We operate on the understanding that everyone's journey is different," he said while explaining the group's purposes.
The emphasis is on people understanding that they can share their stories without judgement. The message is that all participants have good sets of ears and nothing is achieved by hiding away on their own.
Many participants are suffering post traumatic stress disorder, some going years without the correct diagnosis.
Last week police officer David led the small group through the regular program.
One former veteran shared a simple story that he felt alone, but since finding the group he had found many other people like himself.
A former Navy veteran spoke of her post traumatic stress disorder. A spirited participant, she often had words of encouragement for others and the simple philosophy "If you are not a bity nutty what are you here for?
Another veteran says she finds it more relatable for her own experiences by hearing other people's stories.
One police officer talked of how in just four visits the group has already helped him with his anxiety and depression.
"It has been of great benefit to open up and speak one on one on what I have been going through.
"This is so important for people who have kept their problems to themselves. I find I can talk in a safe space," he reflects.
Another veteran said the group destigmatises mental health.
"In many ways we are out and about in the community bravely acting as everything is normal. But what is normal? he asks.
The value of the program is evident for two visitors who have travelled from Hawthorn RSL keen to set up something similar at their local sub branch.
Both former veterans and now police officers, they see the long term benefits for both veterans and first responders.
They both say policing expects resilience and often mental health is not taken into account.
Guest speakers are Dan and Natalie O'Shea who run Rooster Tours a fun and adventure tour company focussing on nature based activities.
A personal trainer, Dan said people often cared for their physical health, but omitted their mental health. He said the two go hand in hand.
Veteran Brett Kersten described the well being group as his saviour.
He was an original member when the group met in Drouin and describes his initial attendance as "terrifying".
"PTSD had resulted in me isolating from the community.
"It is a coping mechanism from the trauma I'd experienced.
"But once I was here I was among like minded people and I realised it wasn't just me.
"Everyone is on different stages of their journeys which gives strength through awareness of the issues.
"The most important aspect is that it takes away that feeling of helplessness," he said.
As well as the support during the meeting, the participants also find camaraderie over refreshments afterwards.
Ben believes the group has found its success by providing people with social connections.
He sees it being of great benefit to veterans as hearings begin for the Royal Commission into defence and veteran suicide.
Anyone wanting more information can contact Brett Kersten on 0457 634638.