** Content Warning **
Due to the nature of this Podcast and the discussions that I have with Guests, I feel it's important to underline that there may be content within the episodes that have the potential to cause harm. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know is struggling, please contact one of the services below for support.
Episode Description:
In this compelling episode, Sarah O'Brien shares her powerful story of love and resilience as the partner of Matt, a former NSW Police officer and firefighter. From their first meeting, Sarah was captivated by Matt's integrity and loyalty. Together, they navigated the challenges of his demanding career, which deeply impacted their family life.
Sarah opens up about recognizing the signs of burnout and compassion fatigue in Matt, leading to his PTSD diagnosis. She candidly discusses the emotional and practical struggles they faced, including the trauma that pushed Matt to his limits and the critical moments that shaped their journey toward healing.
Sarah also introduces "Living Alongside," the charity she founded to support families of first responders. This organisation provides resources and a community for those facing similar challenges, emphasising the importance of support systems in navigating mental health issues.
Throughout the episode, Sarah highlights the realities of mental health in the first responder community and the importance of advocacy. She emphasizes the strength of human connection and the unwavering support that helped them overcome life's toughest battles. Her journey offers hope, practical advice, and a powerful reminder that no one is alone in their struggles.
Sarah’s story is a testament to the enduring power of love and resilience, providing invaluable insights for listeners from all walks of life.
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Find Sarah U'Brien
Mental Health Resources:
000 - Concerns for someone's immediate welfare, please call 000 (Australia)
RUOK? - Resources https://www.ruok.org.au/every-day-resources
LIFELINE, Crisis Support & Suicide Prevention - 13 11 14 - https://www.lifeline.org.au/
Beyond Blue - 1300 224 636 - https://www.beyondblue.org.au/
1800 Respect, Domestic, Family & Sexual Violence Counselling - 1800 737 732 -https://www.1800respect.org.au/
Suicide Call Back Service, 24hr free video & online counselling - 1300 659 467 -https://www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au/
Blue Knot, Empowering Recovery from Complex Trauma - 1300 650 380 - https://blueknot.org.au/
Head Space, National Youth Mental Health Foundation - https://www.headspace.com/
Black Dog Institute - https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/
Kids Helpline (24/7, for youth 5-25) 1800 55 1800 - https://kidshelpline.com.au/
Support line for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples - 13 YARN (24/7) 13 92 76 - https://www.13yarn.org.au/
MensLine (24/7) 1300 78 99 78 - https://mensline.org.au/
QLife (3pm-midnight) 1800 184 527 - Anonymous, free LGBTI support - https://qlife.org.au/
