Setting up for success

If you’re struggling because of your experiences in the Canadian Military or the RCMP, you’re not alone. You may be reading this during a challenging time. You may only be able to absorb only so much at any one time. We encourage you to revisit these resources often. What you find helpful may change over time.

It’s okay to step away from it for a while, or it might help to talk with a trusted family member, friend, or a counsellor. If you require more support, additional resources are listed here.

Much of the content within this series is stories, quotes and vignettes of Canadian Armed Forces and RCMP Veterans, their partners, and their families, and is provided in the spirit of acknowledging and validating their lived experiences. Content may include:

• Self-harm and suicide.
• Death and dying.
• Substance use.
• PTSD, PTSI or OSI.

The videos show Veterans, their partners, and families sharing personal stories. Some may be disturbing or triggering and may cause psychological or physiological symptoms, especially for those who have experienced Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or other anxiety disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Injuries (PTSI) or Operational Stress Injuries (OSI). This warning is included for transparency and to encourage readers to take care of themselves while looking at this resource. Videos can have a greater emotional impact and can be a higher risk for triggers.

As you progress through the series, look after yourself in whatever way feels right for you.

You might:

• Prepare yourself emotionally before you begin.
• Settle into a space and seating that feels safe and comfortable for you.
• Choose to skip content.
• Take frequent breaks and step away for awhile.
• Take several days – or longer – to work through the material.
• Ask a friend, family member, or colleague you feel safe with to join you – or talk with them afterwards about the content and your reactions.
• Debrief with a therapist or counsellor.