In this podcast episode called “The best exercise for your heart is to help somebody else stand up” I had the pleasure of chatting with Roger Eichler.

Like so many others who joined the police force in the 80’s, Roger didn’t know what to do when he left school but felt a sese of wanting to serve the community and signed up to become a police officer.

Roger served 17 years in the NSW police force  – with a large majority of those years spent serving in in rural NSW.  Which he learnt was a different experience than being a police officer in metropolitan locations,  as officers in rural locations undertake every aspect of policing. From attending the callout, to crime scene investigation and the never ending task of paperwork.

He speaks openly about challenging scenes he attended and not having processes in place to debrief afterwards and that the trauma hits you the next day, or later after you’ve had time to slow down and the adrenaline has subsided. 

Roger has spent years repairing himself, repairing his marriage and does not for one moment take for granted how he could have lost everything because he was not completely open with those around him about his struggles. 

He now volunteers with many not-for-profit organisations which have helped him along his journey to recovery – he is passionate about giving back.

You’ll hear how psychologists let him down and dismissed his feelings – he often felt let down and misdiagnosed. Luckily he stayed determined to help himself and continued with treatments and persuade many alternative therapies.

Roger also wrote a book about his experiences on the front line which openly speak about his battles with mental health. Writing the book "The Price of Protecting Others" helped him heal and it no doubt has helped many others feel more supported and not so “alone” with their own battles.

• https://questforlife.org.au/
• https://www.trojanstrek.com/
• https://rogereichlerauthor.com/

If you feel triggered by this episode or are in crisis please reach out to a support service. The contact details for organisations who offer support can be found on the podcast page of our website www.torodesolutions.com.au/podcast

Could you, or someone you know benefit from real support and guidance transitioning careers? Or, are you considering transitioning from the service? Whether that is the Australian Defence Force, emergency services, or the Australian Public Service. If so, reach out to Sarah or Rob from Torode Solutions. Follow us on social media and get in touch:

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