Getting more out of current therapies for PTS page 3

World experts to speak at Global Alliance Conference pages 4-5

Jerry’s Workout for Awareness page 7

Edition 2, 2019

Wellbeing Program shines at ANZAC Commemorative Cocktail Evening

2 | The Despatch

UPDATE

As you may already know, The Road Home (TRH) is part of The Hospital Research Foundation (THRF) Group.

THRF Group supports people in the community by funding vital health and medical research and improved patient care in our hospitals. From June 2019, TRH has updated its logo and language to

reflect its association with THRF Group. Our services and commitment to better outcomes and patient care will not change! This update simply brings TRH under THRF Group’s umbrella in a more formal way

to further reflect our commitment to trust, transparency and strict governance protocols.

To this From this

A Wonderful Night Commemorating our Veterans

On Saturday 27 April, The Road Home held their annual ANZAC Commemorative Cocktail Evening at Adelaide Oval. More than 200 guests enjoyed the opportunity to come together and acknowledge the service and sacrifice of our veterans both past and present.

Special thanks to the Premier of South Australia Steven Marshall MP for delivering a moving speech that highlighted his ongoing commitment and appreciation for our servicemen and women as well as the contribution of their families and loved ones.

To acknowledge this support, Australian Army veteran and The Road Home Wellbeing Program Art Activity participant John Duncan presented the Premier with a portrait he had painted specifically for the event (pictured front page).Taking up art while at the Jamie Larcombe Centre in 2018, John told the Premier that art has provided him with a new focus and helped him to overcome a number of health challenges.

The evening was also a wonderful opportunity to share with attendees a new mini-documentary that shows firsthand the impact that our Wellbeing Program is having on participants’ lives.

A special thank you also to our sponsors for their incredible support of this event. Without your commitment to our servicemen and women, we wouldn’t have this chance to come together and acknowledge their continued dedication to our freedom and safety.

Platinum Sponsor Silver Sponsor Bronze Sponsor

www.theroadhome.com.au | 3

Effective Research towards Individualising Trauma Therapy Professor Reg Nixon is determined to find better health outcomes for our Nation's heroes.

The recipient of the 2018 Prabha Seshadri Grant, Prof Nixon from Flinders University’s College of Education, Psychology and Social Work is currently undertaking research to improve the effectiveness of Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for Post-Traumatic Stress.

“Inevitably, our veterans and emergency service personnel will be exposed to and face trauma as part of their jobs, which can affect their mental health and lead to issues such as Post-Traumatic Stress.

CPT is a specific type of cognitive behavioural therapy that has been proven in reducing symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress, which can occur after a traumatic experience. It helps people learn skills to ultimately recognise that their traumas don’t have to consume their lives.

Prof Nixon is working alongside psychologist Ms Marja Elizabeth, who conducted a large-scale pilot study which compared modified CPT to the standard CPT.

“This project is about getting more out of current psychological therapies for Post-Traumatic Stress for our veterans and emergency service personnel. We know evidence-based therapy like CPT is effective, however not all benefit with 20-30 per cent dropping out and about 50 per cent still experiencing symptoms,” Prof Nixon said.

“This research builds on making CPT, which can get excellent results in many instances, more effective for people. The project is innovative in that no one in Australia has modified and tested a Post-Traumatic Stress treatment in the way we propose.”

Marja agrees and believes the therapy is effective as it stands but can be improved and have an even higher success rate by tailoring the sessions.

“Our pilot study found tailoring the therapy to each person when it was necessary was effective and people were more inclined to come to the weekly sessions, so we will continue tailoring the sessions throughout the project,” Marja said.

“For example, even though the sessions are very structured, they are also flexible and individualised. Initially we might think it’s a certain event or trauma affecting the person, but we could discover that other things need to be addressed such as sleep issues, or substance use, and we need to be able to work with that.”

A one-hour session per week is offered to each person, with the option of having the full 25 sessions available if needed.

“We know if people don’t get at least 3-5 sessions, the chances of them improving are lessened. CPT is known to have cured people of their Post-Traumatic Stress so we are trying to discover the best ways to keep people engaged in the therapy as we know it really works if people continue,” Prof Nixon said.

“I’m thankful for the funding from The Road Home who have made this project possible. This is specifically for veterans and emergency service personnel who have complicated life experiences through their work and we believe tailoring each CPT session will help them achieve better mental health and save lives.”

We are proud to be supporting Prof Nixon’s research that will improve the wellbeing and mental health of our veterans and emergency service personnel. If you would like to find out more about participating in this study, email traumaunit@flinders.edu.au or call (08) 8201 5995.

Professor Reg Nixon and Ms Marja Elizabeth.

4 | The Despatch

World-leading experts to address Global Alliance Conference on Post-Traumatic Stress

David Wiseman Head of Programmes: Supporting Those Who Serve, The Royal Foundation of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and The Duke and Duchess of Sussex

Professor Nicola Fear Department of Military Mental Health,

King’s College London

Professor Cherie ArmourPsychological Trauma and Mental Health, Queen's University, Belfast and President of the UK Psychological Trauma Society

Colleen ClarkPsychotherapist and Trainer: Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Calgary, Canada

Melissa WalkerArt Therapist/Healing Arts Program Coordinator, National Intrepid Center of Excellence, United States

Karen MayAssociate Director, Australian Centre of Excellence for PTS

Colonel Susan Neuhaus CSC (Ret’d)

Dr Miranda Van HooffCentre for Traumatic Stress Studies, University of Adelaide

Dr Ellie Lawrence-WoodCentre for Traumatic Stress Studies, University of Adelaide

Dr Galina DaraganovaAustralian Institute of Families Studies

Professor Sharon Lawn Director, Human Behaviour and Health Research Unit, Flinders University

Dr Dannielle PostAlliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity, University of South Australia

Gwen CherneAustralian War Memorial Council, War Widow’s Guild and Advisor on Veteran Families' issues

Stacey FerlandPsychological Services Division, Calgary Police Service, Canada

Prof. Nicholas Carleton (presenting via video)Principal Investigator on the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Longitudinal PTSD Study; Scientific Director for the Canadian Institute for Public Safety Research and Treatment

Prof. Nicholas Procter RN, MBA, PhDChair, Mental Health Nursing and leader of the Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Research Group, University of South Australia

This is an outstanding opportunity to hear about the very latest research and therapies to treat and support related issues for Post-Traumatic Stress for veterans, emergency service personnel and families. The program includes exclusive masterclasses, panels and keynote speakers, covering a wide range of topics, all with the goal of improving outcomes and care.

Below are many of the speakers who will present at the Conference, with more being added each week!Adelaide, 6 – 8 November 2019

www.theroadhome.com.au | 5

World-leading experts to address Global Alliance Conference on Post-Traumatic Stress

Professor Nicola Fear Department of Military Mental Health,

King’s College London

Assoc. Prof. Heidi Cramm PhD Associate Scientist – Canadian Institute of Military Veteran Health

Research (CIMVHR), Associate Professor in the School of Rehabilitation Therapy at Queen’s University, Canada and Scholar in Residence (Family)

at the Canadian Institute for Public Safety Research & Treatment

Josh GoldbergAuthor of Strugglewell, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Boulder Crest Institute for Post-Traumatic Growth, United States

Robert Lippiatt Strategic Business and Innovation Advisor, Southern Pacific Consulting Group

Dr Elaine Waddell Flinders University

Kellie Toole University of Adelaide

Liz McNeillFlinders University and Trojan’s Trek

Nathan Kerr University of Newcastle

Suzanna FreegardUniversity of South Australia

Suzanne Desailly General Manager National Operations, Mates 4 Mates

Dr Collette Snowden Senior Lecturer, University of South Australia

This is an outstanding opportunity to hear about the very latest research and therapies to treat and support related issues for Post-Traumatic Stress for veterans, emergency service personnel and families. The program includes exclusive masterclasses, panels and keynote speakers, covering a wide range of topics, all with the goal of improving outcomes and care.

Below are many of the speakers who will present at the Conference, with more being added each week!

To view the latest program, learn more about the speakers or register to attend, visit

globalallianceconferenceonpts2019.aomevents.com.au

Mark Carroll National and SA President of Police Association

Dr. Stephen Boucher Former Chief Psychiatrist, Operational Stress Injury Clinic, Calgary, Canada

Dr. Jon LaneLieutenant-Colonel Psychiatrist, Australian Army and Researcher, University of Adelaide

Dr. Sharon Mascall-DareHonorary Chair, StoryRight, University of South Australia

Martin Colclough Head of Sports Recovery, Help for Heroes, United Kingdom

Dr. Katia Ferrar Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity, University of South Australia

Dr. Max Nelson Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity, University of South Australia

Holly Bowen-Salter University of South Australia

6 | The Despatch

Since he was a teenager, Richard Frampton has worked tirelessly to support his fellow Australians and he’s not ready to slow down.

“I joined the Royal Australian Navy as a junior recruit in 1968, and for nine years was part of a number of deployments including several to South-East Asia. I thoroughly enjoyed my time and while it set me in good stead for the future it wasn’t until I discharged that my remarkable life began,” Richard said.

Leaving his Navy career behind, Richard, his wife Johanna and their three children spent many years living in remote parts of the Northern Territory including Elcho Island (known to its traditional owners as Galiwin'ku), situated off the coast of Arnhem Land.

“I was privileged to work with Indigenous people for 30 years in various sales and marketing roles on behalf of Arnhem Land Progress Aboriginal Corporation (ALPA), Australia’s largest Indigenous organisation.

“Instead of a company car I had a company plane and I would spend a week in the bush then a week back home. The kids and I learnt two Indigenous languages and formed a wonderful appreciation for the culture and history of our First Australians.”

Richard eventually returned to South Australia for health reasons, but continued his work as a mentor and advisor for ALPA before eventually retiring.

Today, Richard continues to be an advocate for those in the community as well as his fellow veterans. He is a strong supporter of The Road Home and a valuable voice for veterans at the Jamie Larcombe Centre in his role as Chairman of the Lived Experience Group (LEG).

Membership of the group includes consumers that have accessed services at the Jamie Larcombe Centre, their carers and staff.

Giving back to his fellow Veterans

“The group is very important to me as it provides a conduit between management and those accessing services at the Centre to convey their lived experience perspective. It’s integral to any organisation’s success that people have a say about what’s good and what could be improved, and I feel privileged to be their ‘voice’.

“I have spent my life helping others so I know first-hand the difference that a good meal, a warm bed and great care can have on someone’s recovery and future.

“I am proud that I can continue to serve others in this way and appreciate the work that everyone at The Road Home and the Jamie Larcombe Centre does to help our veterans.”

A watercolour of John’s room in the Jamie Larcombe Centre.

You’re Helping People like John You may remember reading a letter we recently sent you regarding Australian Army veteran, John Duncan. John found his purpose again after 26 years in the Army had taken its toll on him. Thankfully, John began practicing art through The Road Home’s Wellbeing Program with Visual Arts Tutor, Kaz Pedersen.

Thanks to our valued donors, we can ensure people like John find their own purpose and support them in their time of need.

The Lived Experience Group from left: Roger Hall (Consumer Representative), Maxine Schofield (Consumer/Carer Representative), Mick Curry (TPI Hospital Visiting Program Coordinator), Rosalind Bowering (Consumer/Carer Representaive), Richard Frampton (Chair /Consumer Representative).

Absent: Warren Melling (Consumer Representative), Gary Daley (Consumer Representative) and Glenn Grant (Consumer Representative).

www.theroadhome.com.au | 7

Workout for AwarenessCompleting a gruelling 48-hour workout, veteran and first responder Jerry Lienert pushed his limits to raise awareness and funds to support those suffering with Post-Traumatic Stress.

As an Army veteran and current serving police officer, Jerry understands the difficult reality of being faced with traumatic events on the job. Having fought his own battle with Post-Traumatic Stress he was in a unique position to bring light to the darkness of the silent injury faced by many.

Jerry wanted to start a conversation and decided that he would voluntarily work out for 48 hours.

“I want to encourage people in the veteran and emergency services community to come forward and seek help if they are struggling, no matter their rank or seniority,” said Jerry.

Jerry accomplished the arduous task over three days from Friday 21 June to Sunday 23 June, completing a range of exercises including hiking, circuit training, yoga, running and cycling.

“My wish is that by me suffering over the course of three days I can connect with as many people as possible to raise awareness towards mental health and the struggles associated with it. If every person shares this experience with another three then the message is multiplied.

“I want people to know that Post-Traumatic Stress can affect anyone, even the most experienced veterans or first responders.”

With only two four-hour sleeps, Jerry struggled physically and mentally, but had a strong mindset and loving support network around him.

“Completing the workouts was extremely tough and I chose it that way for a reason. Anyone who has suffered mental illness knows how difficult things can get not only physically, but also mentally.

“I’m so grateful to have a strong support network around me which some people don’t have. I want to be an example to people that mental health struggles don’t define you.”

Jerry raised $1,700 towards The Road Home! We congratulate him on his incredible achievement and hope that his efforts encourage people to seek help if they are struggling with their mental health.

With your support, The Road Home provides vital support to our veterans and emergency service personnel through research and wellbeing programs, supporting them and their families during their time of need.

If you would like to learn more about fundraising for The Road Home, email contactus@theroadhome.com.au or call (08) 7002 0880.

Top: Jerry works out with members of Crossfit

Lactic at Modbury

Above right: Jerry and his partner Lisa

Right: In action at Torrens

Parade Ground.

PatronsHis Excellency Hieu Van Le AO,

Governor of SA

Graham Cornes OAM

Ambassadors Dr Gill Hicks MBE

Major General John Cantwell AO

DSC (Ret’d)

Stuart O’Grady OAM

Stephanie Morton OAM

Caitlin WardEmilea Mysko

Board of GovernorsBrigadier Alison Creagh CSC (Ret'd)

(Chair)

Andrew Mannix (Deputy Chair)

Dr Samantha CrompvoetsPaul Flynn John GodwinKaren MayMichael MorganGabrielle SasseFiona Smithson

The Road Home 60 Woodville Road, Woodville SA 5011 Ph: (08) 7002 0880 theroadhome.com.au

In Memory

ACES and ADF teams show spirit at ANZAC Day Challenge

If you would like to make a donation in memory of a loved one, please

contact The Road Home on (08) 7002 0880.

TRH-

E2-2

019

The Road Home was proud to support the Australian Combined Emergency Services (ACES) and Australian Defence Force Aussie Rules (ADFAR) football teams at the 2019 ANZAC Day Challenge at Adelaide Oval.

The ACES team is made up of the best footballers from the three emergency services: fire, police and ambulance from across Australia while the ADF All Stars features the best footballers from the Navy, Army and Air Force.

While both teams were fiercely competitive, sportsmanship and respect remained the key pillars of the match. The final score was ACES 10.12.72 to ADF All Stars 7.3.45 – a fantastic result from a highly skilled and fast-paced clash between two great teams. Congratulations!

Annual Remembrance Day Breakfast

Join us for a morning honouring our veterans, both past and present.

Friday 8 November, 7-9am at the Adelaide Convention Centre

Keynote speaker Dr Brendan Nelson AO

Director of the Australian War Memorial

Followed by A panel of International and Australian experts from

our Global Alliance Conference on Post-Traumatic Stress

To register your interest in this event, please email events@theroadhome.com.au or phone (08) 7002 0880.

You’re invited to

L-R: Chief Officer Michael Morgan SAMFS; Fiona Smithson, The Hospital Research Foundation; Senior Firefighter Josh Byerlee SAMFS and Anna Shead, The Road Home.