Careers & Mental Health Conversations

Allan Sparkes shares his lived experience of how continual chronic stress lead to PTSD, depression & suicidal thoughts. Allan talks about the warning signs as well as the simple principles he now lives by including the importance of sleep, nutrition, diet and using technology to help, not harm. Allan's previous career in the police force is remarkable, he's been awarded the Cross of Valor, OAM and a Commendation for brave conduct. Allan is a survivor of PTSD and an advocate for the inclusion of lived experience in areas of mental health awareness and suicide prevention in Australia. *Trigger Warning - Allan speaks candidly about PTSD, his dark days and a time in his life when he was actively suicidal. Please take care of yourself and if this isn't the podcast for you or if you're not feeling your best today, maybe skip this one and put yourself first. If you do need to reach out right now there are professionals ready to help at 24/7 at Lifeline 13 11 14, Mensline 1300 789 978, Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636