Overcoming PTSD with Vulnerability and Winning at the Invictus Games with Ben Farinazzio

Humans of HOPE: Inspiring Stories with Kerrie Atherton

Ben Farinazzo is a remarkable individual whose life exemplifies resilience, courage, and the transformative power of hope. A returned veteran and Invictus Games gold medalist, Ben has become a fervent advocate for mental health and the healing potential of sports. His journey began over 20 years ago as an army officer in East Timor, unknowingly returning home with the psychological scars of his service, which led to severe struggles with PTSD and depression. These silent battles remained largely unnoticed for over a decade until a severe mountain biking accident, which left him hospitalized with a broken neck and back, forced him to confront his challenges head-on. Farinazzo's recovery was a testament to his indomitable spirit, ultimately leading him to represent Australia in powerlifting and indoor rowing at the Invictus Games.

In this episode, Ben Farinazzo shares his deeply personal journey through adversity. He discusses the emotional impact and profound sense of connection fostered by the Invictus Games, underlining the unconquerable human spirit. Farinazzo recounts his struggles with mental health, his time in a mental health hospital, and his subsequent quest for hope and resilience. He emphasizes the importance of support networks, self-care strategies like proper sleep and exercise, and the courage to embrace vulnerability. Through his story, Ben offers a message of positivity, urging listeners to stay connected with loved ones and seek help when needed, breaking away from societal expectations of stoic masculinity.

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Thank you for listening to Humans of HOPE: Inspiring Stories with Kerrie Atherton.

Kerrie Atherton is an inspiring speaker and supporter of her community. To find out more about "Stories of Hope: Worldwide", head to https://storiesofhope.com.au/.

Purchase books in the "Stories of Hope" series, written by Kerrie: https://storiesofhope.com.au/product/stories-of-hope-australia-books/.

If you'd like to donate to the Kintsugi Heroes mission, head to https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/donate.

With thanks to:

Music: "Pilgrims" by Daniel Pratt

Editing & Production: Matthew Bliss ([e-mail])

General Support: Ian Westmoreland (https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au)