Afghanistan Reflections - Using Bushcraft to Help my Mental Health | Post-Traumatic Growth

[@sprokthered]

Every true Briton will forever be in your debt. On behalf of all of us. THANKYOU

[@madini5him]

Thank you Nick. You just hit me. True, hard and soft at the same time. May God be mercyful to you and your family.

[@silverhorse2010]

I must admit it took me a while to get around to watching this, such is my feelings about this topic. I was afraid of what it may bring up for myself. But, I'm glad I did. Nick, you're doing what is right for YOU. To get to this level of introspection and wisdom is admirable. Being in nature is calming for our souls. Thank you for showing me that I am still on the right track mentally. 🇦🇺

[@candyuk1023]

👀💜

[@MarcusLittle-sc6ez]

Thankyou for your honesty and strength. Your words touched me. Thank you.

[@stephenthomas5428]

In Welsh there,s a saying that goes back many years "Lle i enaid gael llonydd" it means a place for the soul to find peace . I,m glad you found your place.

[@philthomson7776]

I did 13 years in the army,unfortunately never went to Afghanistan or Iraq.I did all the police actions,bosnia Kosovo Sierra Leone.I sat alone watching this video with tears coming down.the guilt I feel because I never went to Afghan, and maybe could have made a difference to someone that unfortunately lost their life isn’t something I can describe.it feels like a constant weight on my chest. Sometimes getting outdoors is enough.I try to get out with my wife when I can,so we ended up bringing the woods to our garden.autumn and winter is our time.I built a cabin with a woodburner and that’s my safe place.thanks for what you did,if I could shake your hand I would 👍🏻

[@michaelblack9813]

You did your best and served your country mucker never forget that. You are my brother in arms even though I've never met you.ATB Mick.

[@SeanHendy]

Phil, I met a general that had one medal. He was late REME but still I found it difficult to work out how he'd made it through his service with only one op tour. What you're describing is sometimes called survivor's guilt, usually associated with someone who has been in the same patrol or squad that has lost a colleague, rather than not having been on a particular tour, but in the grand scheme of things I don't think that matters, it is how you feel after all. The order of ops and the nature of the deployments is complete chance. My Dad did 39 years service, '59 to '98, a lot of BAOR/BFG, but also lots of other locations no longer on the Army map and of their time, but in terms of Ops, Malaya was his only one. He was selected for the gulf ('91) but stood down at the initial assembly point, some mix up over numbers, but that was what his career looked like. I spent almost 3 years in NI and was on the first Kosovo deployment. I visited Iraq, and went out on the ground, but wasn't on a deployment so to speak. You've more than done your bit, and given what was asked of you, and that may not mean much, but I would urge you to reach out for someone professional to talk to. I had 8 months counselling after the Kosovo tour, and so that's the perspective I come from. You made a difference in what you did with your service of that I have no doubt. You've already done more than what most people will ever do for others. Warm regards.

[@Life-Outdoors-UK]

You provided a service for a long time, I haven't done a second in the forces. Your superiors decided where you should go and what you should do. If you think you could have done more if used better, that's on them, not you. You had to follow orders. Be proud of your contribution, I'm sure there are lots in the places you went to and served with. Your strength and weakness is that you care. It's a heavy load to carry and important to get help with the load when you struggle. It's good to talk. Talking means you can process leading onto a better mind. Good luck. Get outdoors and enjoy life!

[@baronedipiemonte3990]

From a Yank, disabled veteran, thank you for your service. We're part of a brotherhood that goes beyond nationality. Things didn't end for me the way I wanted, but I'm over it, and am looking forward to being out in nature so much more than I had been. As for the "media", my former Commanding Officer had this to say to the "news addicts"... " How is your life to be made BETTER by eating/absorbing... all the bad/unpleasant news 24/7 ? Hear it, and carry on ! " Soldier on mate !

[@wealdjourneyman]

One of the best “Bushcraft” videos I have ever seen on KZbin. Solid and simple advice not just for those who have served but for everyone. Thank you :-)

[@tac1809]

That video was difficult to watch Nick. I'm not ashamed to admit that I spent the last 10 minutes crying my eyes out. It took 25 years for a diagnosis of "defered PTSD". No help, nothing. That being said, you are right, being outside really does help. Thanks for making this video, I'm going to show it to my wife later. You're doing a good job Nick.

[@philthomson7776]

I think nick has struck a cord with all of us

[@tac1809]

@@philthomson7776 Yes Phil, most definately.

[@andrewfindlay9336]

As a former veteran and Rifleman myself, I want to say thank you, I think the way you articulated how alot of us are feeling could have been done any better. I've been out of the forces for 13 years now and I still get the sense of loneliness when around other people, sometimes especially those that I know love me and care about me deeply. As time has gone by I have learned to enjoy my own company, space of mind and solitude when out in the wild. It grounds me brings back that situational awareness of the bigger picture. Much love from one brother to another.

[@P.J.Thompson]

I'm recovering from a bad depression where I lost 1\3 of my body weight not eating. Reconnecting with nature and our root helps me to get things back into a healthy perspective. Thanks for sharing

[@3onthebeach]

From the US, thank you brother, we appreciate your sacrafice. You're well grounded and are now giving back, and that's greatly appreciated as well.

[@monkeyboy6590]

Thank you so much for making this video. Your words is something a lot of us need to hear. I retired in 2008 from the Marine Corps and I've had time to get my feet back under me and my head screwed back on somewhat right. However, the past few weeks have been hard. I feel and know your pain. Just know that you are not alone. We did what was asked of us with Honor, Courage, and Commitment. No regrets, no looking back, always one step forward. I've never met you, but you will always be my brother. Semper Fi.

[@linedwell]

My mind races constantly, thoughts of the past, sorrows and history of pains unforgotten. The woods are silent of modern hums, it quiets my mind and for the time I'm there, I can think and be clear. Huge respect virtual love for all vets and current service people. I wish everyone nought but wellness and joy. ❤️

[@Admiral_Pumpout]

My older brother passed his All Arms Course straight after training and went to 59 then did a lot of time with the BRF. He’s having his struggles now but I hope he will do ok. Having just been to a funeral last week of a good friend I knew whilst serving who struggled with his own demons and not hearing a word about his struggles until it was too late is a bitter pill to swallow. If I had known would I have been able to make a difference? Who can say, but if ALL of his oppos had known we might together have been able to make a difference together for us all. The only way to get through is to lean on your oppos. They were there for you when the proverbial was hitting the fan, they’ll be there for you now, but you have to speak to them and tell them what is going on, they aren’t mind readers. Keep your chin up Royal, you’re doing a good job.

[@stephenjones853]

Powerful poem mate. Your morals and values would have been outstanding. Simple appreciation and awareness. Very exact with words bro👌

[@lgwjrwhite588]

God bless you brother and thankyou for your service and anyone now befor and after servivor guilt is a very real thing and i still cant go in a room full of people GOD BLESS YOU. MATE

[@jakinfoto1]

Hello Sir. Thank you so much for this video. Having done four international tours myself you just put words to My ptsd life. In 10 days I will be going on a prolonged canoe/Bushcraft weekend in Lake Imeln, Sweden, together with 15 other veterans and two instructors. Hope some day you will come along. Stay safe, warm regards from Tino, Denmark.

[@rwgoutdoors4816]

Thank you for your service.

[@markh5889]

I’m an American but I’d still like to say thanks for your service. I’ve always considered the wilderness to be my church and place of spiritual rejuvenation. Blessed be.

[@tollietime]

an ex royal marine, once a proud , brave warrior.......still alive, still brave, always a warrior. Hope you find enough peace in your soul, Thank you for giving!

[@johnnel6290]

All I can say is thank you service men and women for you effort, dedication and sacrifice.

[@greentechecobooster]

Knowing you more is so humbling. So much capacity for pain, resilience, wisdom, love. Thank you.

[@rolandpritchard1731]

Thank you.

[@gadgetfellow]

and take your dog with you.... heaven. Thank you Nick, touching message

[@johnnyboyhills4205]

Thank you Nick, fantastic video, as ex Royal Navy serving in the Falklands on HMS Antrim then first Gulf War during Desert Storm on HMS Manchester, I left the Navy in 1994, I joined the Police and served for 20 years, I worked on Roads Policing and as a FLO, I delivered what we called death messages to 13 victims families, the hardest job in the world, I was badly assaulted within the last year of my job and decided to retire at 55. During my careers I was diagnosed and had treatment for PTSD twice, I have recently got into getting myself outside and hiking, not easy after a half knee replacement 5 years ago, but I’m determined to do it. I’m equipping to get gear together and just get out there into nature which I’m so looking forward to, looking at KZbin for tips, gear reviews and wild campers, hence coming across your channel and watching your videos, this one in particular resonated, the poem The Warriors Order of March is great, I have listened to it several times. I very very rarely comment on videos, but this resonated and just wanted to say thank you, out of all your uploads this in my opinion is your best. 👍🏼 Take care Royal…

[@seasoldier3902]

Nick, your words say it all. Reinforcing the experience I shared with you and the others earlier this year. I have sent a link to a former Bootneck. You will never be above me. You will never be below me. You will always be by my side!

[@fusilier]

Too many of the men I served with from my first tour of Afghanistan in 2002 to my last tour of Iraq in 2006 have taken their own lives, often many years after their service had ended. 18 so far. I do not want to be the 19th. Veterans & serving soldiers are the absolute worst people for bottling up their mental health issues. In my day it was seen as weakness so you bottled it all up & hid it the best you could from those around you. It was often overlooked or ignored by the headshed. I hid it for years & still do to some degree. My outlet, like yours Nick, is the outdoors. I head off on the moors and walk for hours until the depression lifts & I can breath again. I feel at peace in woodland & have the luxury of having an unmanaged country park less than 30 minutes away from my front door. I've taken to keeping a packed rucksack in the boot of my car & take every opportunity to grab the dog & get away. It has saved my life & kept me sane. In regards to Afghanistan & Iraq, I have a lot of anger & also tremendous guilt that I will probably carry to my dying day. I made it back when so many didnt. I tell myself we made a difference but it rings false when i say it. I cant help but think the whole thing was a waste of the blood spilt on their soil. Thank you Nick for this video in particular & for raising the issues of mental health.

[@cheezycatnip8352]

After serving and then subsequent mental health difficulties, which took a long time for me to admit, nothing would pursuade me that I was in trouble: I was drinking, the way I thought, the way I saw people, close relationships in turmoil, I brought my suffering to others. It was finally brought home to me that I had left the Army, but not the fight. The Army back then saw any issues with mental health as weakness, so I couldnt even speak with my muckers at that point, i placed them far away from me as I didn't want to infect them. However, I finally got some therapy, and part of what healed me was being in nature, sat by a fire, in the tree's, places I felt small, insgnificant and yet alive. I eventually became a therapist, working in the outdoors as the medium in which to walk alongside people on their healing journey, I can't say it enough now, if you find yourself in trouble, reach out, call out, someone always answers.

[@johngrant5448]

Here I am on a Sunday expanding my education, even in my old age. I already knew that there's no profit in fighting another man's war while he sips champagne. I was treated for trauma when I was five years old, not all mothers are good. I have dealt with some serious s#it throughout my life that has made me so mentally tough that nothing bothers me anymore. I've dealt with people with their heads off, people badly injured, I've put out fires, rescued people mentally and physically in the course of my work as a guard with British Rail. Of course, the public had no idea what a guard's duties were and they jus apply that term to everybody in a uniform. Your videos are a valuable tool because we can all learn from each other. Being out in nature is so calming because this is the environment that we were created for as humans. Very soon we will have to leave the urban environment because of the attack that is coming, the government will soon launch an all out attack on the people, before the final battle. We must conceal ourselves as best we can until that battle is over. Now, many of us are getting prepared for that war that we thought wouldn't happen within our lifetime, it is difficult though when you are old. Having said that, we have to get on with it until such time as bojo the clown is laying motionless on the ground.

[@darthsarcastus1064]

A great video! Confronting the elephant in many of our rooms, While I'm sad that our collective efforts in Afghanistan ended the way they did I'm also proud to have given so much in the service of my country's contribution to that campaign. I stood in a room in Eastern Europe watching the Twin Towers destroyed, having just come in from a foot patrol, I knew then that we would go to war over this atrocity. Not a year later I was in Kabul (Op FINGAL), a completely alien environment compared to my previous tours. After FINGAL came HERRICK and I was thrown into a series frantic melees as a section commander. I experienced events I would never have imagined in my wildest nightmares, got shot at (lots), to the point I took risks because I was now blasé to it. I came home and thought nothing of it until my mental health started to suffer. Then on the eve of another deployment I was broken, I went anyway but felt a tidal wave of pressure weighing me down to the point I could not safely do my job and protect my soldiers. I was returned to the UK, one of my soldiers (in my absence) was terribly injured by an IED and my 2i/c killed by another. I felt guilty for those I could not protect only worsening my mental health. I was sidelined by my Battalion and sent on a "Gucci" posting to make me "feel better" once I'd had several months of treatment by a CPN (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) etc. When I returned I was no longer in my Company but in HQ Coy and the stigma (of mental health issues) followed me. It took several years of hard graft and dedication to regain the trust and loyalty the Bn had in me before but I would never progress within the Bn. As for Afghanistan ending? Well it was going to happen one day and I don't get upset about it because at the time I was there I was doing my absolute best for my soldiers and the Afghan people and that is where I find my pride. What's happened has happened but what we, you, I did during our time there is what counts. Never regret doing your best.

[@KristinP-zi2dj]

i love "the warriors order to march"! such a beautiful poem.

[@ltxoutdoors4097]

Respect for your Service. Respect for your comrades lost. Respect all over.

[@rickminer7528]

Your poem made me weep like a little boy. Your poem, along with all your words. Thank you again for the reminder to get back into the woods (this was the second reminder). Today, I began planning my next adventure. My own healing journey continues. God bless. And thank you for your service, for all you did to keep them safe.

[@bmcoutdoor-bushcraftnaturalist]

Thank you for making this channel. It helps veterans to leave their traumas behind and enjoy nature with you.

[@ramblingracheltrailtales]

Well done for speaking openly and honestly about your time in service and where you find yourself now. It takes courage to open up. My Grandad was a Marine in WW2, he never spoke about what happened. I imagine it was too painful . Thank you xx

[@joepublic7264]

My grandad may he rest in piece was in the royal engineers during the 2nd world war and the only time he talked about his time in the war was very brief not long before he died his brother was a desert rat they was both very special and unique pair of souls

[@craigrumsey7492]

I completely understand how you are feeling but through being outdoors getting into wildlife and nature and doing bushcraft I'm back to myself again it has helped me so much that's why I want to continue to do bushcraft

[@English.Andy1]

All I can say is Thank you. Thank you for sharing your thoughts, your service & above all being open. We are listening & your not alone.

[@thomasmcdermott7504]

Your video as always is very refreshing for the mind, I'm still serving and have served on Herrick 8 and 13 with my unit just getting back from the recent chaos. I've been watching your videos as a mental floss over the last 6 months ,your words and focus on mental health have been outstanding. Your reflections have struck a chord with my own and more than likely a lot of others within the serving and veteran community and I thank you for it and wish you to continue with the awesome work you are doing.

[@trevorday7979]

I reckon you’d be a decent carpenter mate….you seem to hit quite a few nails square on the head! Big fan of your words, both spoken and written (your poem). I look forward to a time when international travel opens up again so I could share a brew around the same fire. Keep it going champion. 👍🤝🤝

[@LycanthropiesSpell]

I knew a Trevor Day once...still owe him two bottles of Jenever, one apple and one black current...brings back memories...

[@trevorday7979]

Hahah, not me, but I’ll be happy to share if you can’t find him🤣🍻

[@LycanthropiesSpell]

@@trevorday7979 Last I heard He did get his command of a ship and the rank of Rear Admiral ( His demand or He'd quit, what a guy... ).

[@trevorday7979]

@@LycanthropiesSpell Crikey, must be in the name.😂 Sounds like something I’d do. He’s right up there then. Good on him though.

[@cstoryusmc]

As a former US Marine veteran of Iraq. I have the same feelings and sentiments. i still struggle with large groups and unfamiliar places. I've been out for 10 years and the anxiety has been getting worse over the years. started hiking and just getting into bushcraft in the north Colorado rockies and it has helped so much to de-stress and reflect on life and what is to come. The biggest things i miss is the camaraderie of my brothers and the feeling of belonging. Civilians are hard to connect with, and they dont quite understand who we are or what we have been through. godspeed and godbless you and your family.

[@BigEddie1970]

I’ve watched this so many times and shared it with like minded friends in and out of service. Thank so much for telling this story.

[@susanp.collins7834]

Nick, I served in the South African Corps of Military Intelligence from 1979 to 1984. Stationed at Western Province Command HQ (the Castle). And I was only ever behind a desk. I was never deployed to an active zone because mostly women weren't. At that time we had the Angolan Bush War. And Nick, the SHEER VOLUME of the - mostly - photographic material coming across my desk (I had to file the stuff, that's all - just FILE THE DAMN' stuff) - was enough to send me off to the psychologist at 2 Military Hospital. It's true that I had a destructive and negative home life. It's true that I was not mature for my age. It's true that the SA Military didn't take their women too seriously. So when I hear of what YOU did, what YOU suffered - out there in the field, what YOU saw, what YOU experienced, the burden that you took willingly upon YOUR soul, I am APPALLED! Respect doesn't even BEGIN to describe it! Life and the Blessings of Life be upon you. Always! (And by the way, the hot chocolate as much caffeine in it as coffee😅)

[@ninjasrose1653]

Firstly well done for sharing this. It takes a brave man to stand up and talk about mental health and their dark memories. And thank you for your service. The poem was very poignant! I have never been a soldier and can't even begin to imagine what you've witnessed. But I would class myself as a warrior. I am 37 now and experienced a lot of trauma. Family life early on wasn't great. That led to my brother killing himself when I was 12 he was only 27. Mum turned to the drink and dad got cancer through the shock of it all. I have a string of failed relationships cause of this, had drug problems and made a catalogue of bad decisions to boot. *6 years clean now* My dad was the true warrior though. He fought on for 13 years nearly and passed in 2010 I was holding his hand when he went. Mum continued on until 2017 and unfortunately was found in a pool of blood on the kitchen floor, we wasn't even talking before she passed. As she made me homeless and I lost everything! From October 2016 - January 2017 I lost my job, my home, my dog, my cat and then got the call my mum had just dropped down dead. I have been suicidal many a time and attempted it 4 times but couldn't fully commit because of what it would do to my sister. I Recently just lost a friend who was 39 he went to sleep and never woke up again and was found by his 7 yr old daughter. And that again really put things into perspective for me. If it wasn't for my outlets I wouldn't be here. My main outlet is writing/music, then Kickboxing, Calisthenics and now Bushcraft as of only very recently. I grew up in the countryside and spent all my childhood roaming through woods, building camps and jumps for our pushbikes. I feel like I have come home. I feel this sense of relief and freedom whilst wild-camping that I was sorely missing. I feel like the final piece of the puzzle has clicked into place. Now I don't want this to come across wrong like I am making it all about me. But I want to also share personal things in case there's anyone out there that is struggling that feels they can't share stuff. I am lucky! I have great friends, a roof over my head and a lovely sister. Who's son is ironically joining the marines early next year. I just hope he'll be ok. Some people have no one and by you doing this, you become that someone and by me writing this maybe it gives someone else hope that you can weather the storm and keep pushing. No matter how down you feel, just remember life is precious and you're here for a reason. Thank once again for being brave enough to share something so personal and hard to talk about. It's people like you that impact other's lives harder than you will probably ever truly realise. The work you do now is just as, if not more valuable. It warms the heart to see someone go through what you have (and I won't even begin to try and pretend to understand the extent of what that really is) But then come out the other side and still give back to other's in the process. Keep doing what you're doing mate it's honestly commendable. You may have been a soldier, but you're a warrior now.

[@PlayaSinNombre]

Thank you for sharing your story. And thank you for your service and sacrifice. I am so happy that you found the help you needed, to start the healing process. Enjoy your peace in the wild. God bless.

[@debraanneclark2188]

Serving my country was my life's dream as a child but health issues stopped me. So I have never faced the horrors of war but I have faced dark times with suicidal thoughts, self harm and anxiety. What those who've served have seen faced and endured is beyond imagination. I totally agree with your advice on using nature and the outdoors as a way to reset your body and sole because I have always found that when I'm out in the woods camping or sitting on a beach fishing I tune out of what's happening in the world for a few hours maybe a day or two but when I come home I feel refreshed ready to face what lays ahead. For those who have served past present and future I have the utmost respect because all gave some, some gave all thank you for your service

[@rob8530]

Amazing video thank you so much..God bless you

[@rob8530]

@@hiddenvalleybushcraft5683 The Lord sent me to your video to give me the words of encouragement I needed. I'm gonna get out there maybe even fasting a little bit for renewed strength and confidence. Again thank you so much. God heals. Amen

[@martingoodwin56]

God Bless You Sir. To thy own self be true.....screw the rest and move on but be true to yourself. Thanks for your service from Kansas, USA. God help us all.

[@tigerforge3517]

I have served and bled. Northern Ireland was my killing ground, my enemy distant and unseen or all too close. We all leave something out there, in the streets or in the deserts. Sometimes it is the better part of us. Sometimes what we bring back is lesser. My CSM told me to remember you made a difference, its not your fault and there was nothing more you could have done. You were enough. Breathe, sleep, smile. Do it again tomorrow. Stand at ease.

[@tedsamuels3203]

This video is awesome 👌 and u don't have to define this guy's words . He's as real as the world 🌎 We all live in and it's up to all of us to change it ? And , Sometimes, It's just hearing Someone say , Your not alone and theirs Billions of people on earth feeling the same. FREEDOM

[@sheraliawan7859]

Brother, mulana rumi said, " I was clever I try to change the world, I m wise I am changing myself". Respect from Pakistan 🇵🇰.

[@kennethjohansen6263]

Thank you for sharing. Inspiring, encouraging and helpful. Norwegian army veteran 🇧🇻 3deployments to Afghanistan. 12 months in kosovo

[@Tykepaints]

Really well said and powerful, can’t have been the easiest video to make so thanks so much for doing this and sharing a way through for people who feel like there isn’t one, especially with current events. Love the metaphor and so true for anyone who has experienced traumatic events of any kind - the more broken the earth the deeper the seed can lay and the stronger the roots of new growth can be. Thanks again for making this and for sharing your own experiences.

[@backdoor5993]

In the US Marine Corps we have a motto, "Semper Fidelis" (Always Faithful to God, Country and Corps) which is usually abbreviated "SemperFi". We often use it as a kind of salute to those who have served and as an acknowledgement that taking on the title "Marine" is a tradition and responsibility one must voluntarily accept and earn. It sounds like you have fulfilled your oath. You've fought the battles, now is the time to enjoy your homeland externally and internally. Well done Marine!

[@maryhairy1]

All grown up during the Rhodesian bush war I certainly relate to this. Like you a lost many a mate. Hearing your poem twanged my heart strings. Thanks

[@Littlehornification]

Thank you. For your service, your dedication and your sharing.

[@JohnAlot]

I didn't understand why I changed so much over the last year and a half. I survived working in my New York City emergency room through the worst of Covid. I find myself dreading crowded places when I used to love the vibrancy of the city & excitement of emergency medicine. I now wish I could live in the mountains with little personal contact. I'm learning more than bushcraft from your channel.

[@lisajohnston6422]

Thank you Nick, I am a Gulf War Army Veteran, OIF and OEF twice each as a DOD federal agent. Take care of yourself my friend, I love your videos.

[@moiragoldsmith7052]

💞 I couldn't agree more with your sentiments. Put your own life jacket on first...then you can save others. Bless your heart. Love to all.💖 Thanks.

[@donaldelfreth553]

My friend, as a communicator you appear to be in danger of becoming a modern-day John Burroughs. I am no great fan of poetry in general. But when verse (or prose) comes straight from the soul and is expressed clearly and with compassion, it deserves a special prize. What you said affected me deeply, and indeed it was very helpful. Thank you.

[@kenrankin5814]

Sometimes one of the hardest things we can do is to talk, and harder still to listen, for some. Thank you for sharing with us, and allowing us to listen to you and to hear your story. My uncle served in Vietnam, I served 7 years in the US Army (85-92) and cannot imagine what he, you and thousands others have gone through. I have a niece and nephew who served in Afghanistan and now have co workers who served in both Afghanistan and Iraq, and I listen to them, and what they can share. Your poem is fantastic and it is a song from the soul, prose worthy of a warrior-poet. I am so glad you are using your channel and bushcraft to help others. God bless you.

[@AW-Services]

First and foremost, a massive thank you for your service. Secondly as a human and british tax payer i am so sorry that the system was broken and you didn't get the support you needed quickly Keep strong Royal. Respect 🙏

[@hannajensen1886]

You sir are a legend!! I am so proud of you and all the other service men and woman that have served our country. Thank you

[@mkmdexplorationparanormal5610]

Top respect to your thoughts on Afghanistan, I lost a mate through a tragic accident whilst on tour there, I never served in Afghanistan but I did Op Telic during the invasion in 2003. The feeling's towards this mess is mutual Paul, us Veterans need to move on (mentally) to focus on our own mental issues in order to move forward with life, and doing just this, having a brew in forests, on the beach, even in the back garden helps, you certainly hit the nail on the head when you feel it in your heart when it hits home when it boils down to reflecting in your own mind. No words can discribe the feelings we endured whilst we recovered after operational tour but numbness. You are a true warrior Brother, keep doing your thing 🤜🤛🇬🇧⚔️

[@tac1809]

I'm 'supporting' a Police Dog Handler with Complex PTSD. She's going through a rough patch at the moment, so I played this video for her. After the worlds supply of tears she managed to calm down a bit. This is the short version. The point is, Nick, you can add another notch to your list of tally of successes. Thank you.

[@tomluck9455]

That was great,. I myself am in a wheel chair , I do not watch the news or mainstream media, I agree with you 100%. I have found myself in this situation ten years ago and Have done fighting to get Out of it ever since.

[@daopaleo]

I can not understate: wilderness saved my sanity and eventually life. Agree, agree and agree with you and thank you for making my cheeks wet for no apparent reason.

[@philthomson7776]

Me too

[@leewade2862]

Was watching this with my wife and had to leave the room. Very powerful words brother. The way I see it, anyone that has served has volunteered, and no-one knows what can happen during their time. But you still do it. You still make the decision to serve, and potentially pay the price for it. I do think that everyone leaves injured, and that we're all 'altered' for sure. You can have the civvy trained out of you, but definitely not trained back into you.....and let's face face it, why would you? On balance, it's great to be a part of the best family in the world. And we're all here for support any time. Great videos, great content. Still making a difference by entertaining and educating. Proud of you.

[@moonaegis5402]

Nick you're an inspiration. Seeing such a competent, confident, and "real" man show his vulnerabilities is far, far too rare in these toxic times. Thank you. Keep in the woods, and keep the awesome content coming!

[@colinhefferman5498]

Nick, I never served but have profound respect for those of you that did. I see the thoughts you put out there reflected in my ex- Brit Mil mates that served where you did. They're heartbroken by the sheer waste of effort to change peoples lives. I'm very proud of them. You're all legends.

[@pawoutdoors9290]

Well done, well said. Yours is the only bushcraft channel that talks freely about mental and physical long term pain. Thank you. “The Mountains shall bring peace to the people “. Cheers

[@outandaboutinnature]

Nick, I have several years service in the British Army under my belt (84-95), and experienced some tragedies. None of them affect me too much, or so I thought. It wasn't until my wife passed away 2 years ago of cancer, aged 49, that things started to hit home a bit. I am a keen bushcrafter, and wild camper (shhh!), and when I'm out in nature, I'm in the zone. The 'real' world doesn't exist. I try my best to get out 2-3 times a month. I don't speak to anyone about my past, I prefer to keep a lid on it. I don't think it affects my normal run-of-the-mill life. Others may argue that lol. Anyway, it's great that you can be open about your experiences and I hope that, when the time comes for me to talk, I have as big a pair of bollocks as you. Take care brother.

[@2secondslater]

Hi Nick, like you, I have suffered from PTSD pretty severely, though not from the same causes, as I have not served in the military. I am now a survivor and the outdoors arts of bushcraft, hiking, camping, fishing and hunting have helped immensely in my recovery. I discovered your channel not too long ago after listening to the Paul Kirtley podcast and followed from there. Just wanted to pass on my thanks to you for producing these well thought out and presented bushcraft education videos, you are an inspiration. Cheers mate.

[@evangelistcryinginthewilde6380]

This video will speak to alot of people and not just to those that have served in the military. Thankyou for your service, keep strong and continue having a brew in the woods.

[@aynsleycooper365]

A beautifully judged upload, which had my wife in floods of tears, it spoke to so many things, so many people. We extend our hands to you, and all others who understand what you're saying. Be well. Aynsley & Julie.

[@leemichel8199]

No one but nature can understand what you went through or how you feel .recovery is the burden we carry for peace and freedom for all .family is the strength you receive as the gift for the sacrifices.. God bless .fellow vet here bro .know what you meant, the message heard clear .. never give up .. God bless . Lee

[@albertjones3476]

You mate are a frigging hero truth is a hard thing to explain and feel you way .What you have seen witnessed we don't say it to much in our country thank you for what you have done for this country service

[@davidredwood3873]

First thank you for your service brother, you not are alone, I still think back to my time in NI and it still hurts to remember, you are not alone.

[@baccussailing1]

60 years old this month… still suffering. Back in therapy again. Still get nightmares. My ptsd moment happened when I was 12. It lasted for 5 years before the pedo left me alone. I am a survivor and will continue to survive. Keep strong. I too find solace in my tent alone. My happy place.

[@southbucksbushcraft6572]

WOW speechless... Listening to this brought all different types of emotions flooding in... Lovely video nick thanks for sharing...

[@mwmurdoch6845]

Thanks for your service Nick. Great to see you thriving after the sacrifices you made in your Royal Marines service. Good on you sir.

[@w1ldcraftman]

Nick, so much that could be said. On that note "Thankyou to you, anyone you know and others, for your Service" Stay well

[@Revup1]

Thanks Nick......and no thanks! Just spent the day building bush-craft shelters with my son, only to come back in and have the psychological good work undone by your video! My primary emotion at the moment is anger, the anger gives way to that anguish you described, the Moral Injury. I'm no warrior, but I served with many and lost a few. We have been trying to support folk as best we can at the moment, so I hope you don't mind me re-posting your piece. Love and blessings to you, Pongo to Marine.

[@bryandelworth6466]

I've only just seen this video nick, thank you for sharing it. As a veteran of 2 tours of Iraq, your words hit home. Your poem was amazing 👏 . Mental health and nature goes hand in hand 100%. Keep up the fantastic work 👏

[@davidwelch2438]

A very humbling video. The world needs more people like you in it telling their stories & sharing their experiences. Thanks.

[@robertjohnredrupp2405]

Thank you for your service, your video and your poetry. I think we are all in a state of sadness and disillusionment over the situation of Afghanistan. The sadness of over 400 families who lost love ones and for what ? Politicians and are the ones who get us fighting each other, I've found wherever I've ever visited in the World, people are just people. I'm truly happy you are on the mend in your life, you are an example to many Sir.

[@beancampingpodcast7926]

I don't think I've ever seen a video like this. very powerful. a credit to all those serving or veteran, present or passed. you've done them all proud.

[@bacon-outdoor]

My brother passed away when I was 15. He died 2 months before his 12th birthday. Now, 20 years later, I still feel the pain of the moment I heard he passed away. I'm telling all my friends to be happy with what they have. Don't regret the things you did, but the things you didn't. Looking forward and try to find the positive things in life. Like you, Nick, said in another video: just say what it is. Bad weather; it's raining. What can you do about that?? And the loneliness you mentioned; I know the feeling. Moments like this in life make you the person you are today. Please keep sharing your information with us. Greating from The Netherlands.

[@bacon-outdoor]

@@hiddenvalleybushcraft5683 Nick, you told your story so I told you mine😉 We all have a some kind of trauma and telling people about it helps me with processing.

[@stephenbailie2086]

Nick thank you for your service, you are and always will be a warrior! You have been an absolute ray of light for me, your content is an escape for me watching from northern Ireland. Since the first lock down I watch your videos every single day. Getting out Into the woods or nature. Thank you again.

[@Philo68]

Real warriors travel in silence. Glad you broke the mould Nick and had the courage to talk. This info could help for so many damaged people, like errmmm… me? This video was like looking in a mirror - apart from the fact I’m crap in the woods! Chin up Royal!

[@MorganMcGrew]

Thank you for this video. I really needed to your this video. Thank you. I am a US veteran and I feel your sorrow and I am thankful for where I am now. And I am thankful that you are doing much better now. I am thankful for you and what you do. Hopefully I meet you someday in one of your courses.

[@daviddirom7429]

I got to the bit where he talks about changing your environment, get out the room. I’ve been in a negative place for a lot of decades, lots of people trying to help me. But it wasn’t till I went to Terrace Northern British Columbia Canada 12 August to 5 September 2021 that change your environment hit home too me. More Trees, Mountains, and Water/Waterfalls than I had experienced in my past life, it was like being reborn. While my injuries limit my wing spreading 😂 Spreading my wings since I got back from Terrace is what my plans are. Dusting of my old webbing/packs and see how far I can go. “TALL OAKS FROM LITTLE ACORNS GROW” I always wondered what that meant as a kid in Scotland now I ‘know!

[@bernardhayes4459]

Very moving narrative. Thank you for your service. I had an Uncle who fought in Korea as a very young man. He suffered with PTSD the rest of his life.

[@kierantaylor5852]

Wow. So powerful. The bit about about feeling alone in a full room really hit home with me. Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts. The poem was incredible.

[@MrCharles0001]

Thanks Nick, I was born and brought up in what is now Zimbabwe, and I so relate to what you have said. I was never a soldier and I never heard a shot fired in anger or seen the aftermath but I lost friends and had had the persistent threat all my young life of the possibility of being murdered. We were all armed, security fenced, grenade screens,convoys etc on the farm, and it is only in the last five years or so I have realised that I suffer from psd too.

[@robch4414]

Deep, powerful, moving words on mental health that are all too rarely spoken out loud with such first-hand feeling. It would be good to think that a few of the politicians doing the politics would watch this, beginning to end. The value of the natural, rural world as part of a healing process, mentally and physically, makes it something to treasure and spread, not make less and less accessible to all but a lucky few. Thank you.

[@inguzwulf]

Without wishing to reveal (British reserve, and all that) but I know exactly what you're saying (different strokes, similar outcome): we hide in a room full of people; we hide in our beds but do not move.. There's a time and a place for that and there is a time not to, and we each have to learn when that is. Troughs and swells. The troughs eventually get smaller (although we might not notice at the time). Hopefully we learn to ride up the swells, and perhaps more importantly learn to recognise them for what they are: movement and opportunity. We can learn from [the/our/others] (delete as appropriate) past but not change it but perhaps tomorrow's outcome will be different (hopefully better) because we did. I'm not sure where I am now in regards my past events - memories and the feelings/anxieties attached to them do have a nasty habit of popping back up - further down the line than where you are I suspect but when you mentioned 'media' I remembered some lyrics to an old BBC programme from my youth: "Why don't you just switch off your television set and go do something less boring instead. Sitting at home, watching TV, turn it off it's no good for me..!" Makes me smile when I remember them: now that's life advice! I agree with you about sitting under a tree, I must do, I keep watching, afterall. Look after yourself fella, you're doing alright! And for anyone else who cares: bad shit happens! Right now may be a bad place and it may have long lasting repercussions but they're your bootstraps, and despite any help you receive along the way only you can haul yourself up by them. This isn't meant to be negative or preachy, you can be your own best friend, too! Damn but that was an unexpected post. Gonna have to start listening to myself more often.

[@Myshit41]

Sometimes our own advice is the best thing for us, it can also be the hardest to actually take!

[@joshbagley1959]

Thanks Nick. I did my deployed time in Iraq and had somewhat similar feelings after we pulled out. Altogether a different result and operation but the political will and motivations leave us veterans frustrated and conflicted over the effort and worth of our sacrifices. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. The problem, unfortunately, is that Afghanistan, the people, the culture, and the terrain (and history) is alien to those that make our policies and strategies that we implement. Glad to see you're doing well, very successful, and I'm really enjoying the bushcraft videos. Bushcraft is something I love doing here in New England (USA) and the US Southwest. De Opresso Liber.

[@dezhatton7859]

Thanks for this video,my friend.After 30 years plus of working outdoors as a Gardener ,I am trying to get out and enjoy the countryside ,the great outdoors ,to enjoy the outdoors just for me.through Bushcraft, especially after my cancer diagnosis a few year's ago which as affected me in many ways, again Bushcraft, or just walking out into nature is extremely vital for me and has helped combat my mental health. Thanks again, my, friend, very good words spoken in this video, and of course your KZbin channel is awesome 👌.

[@osirusgtr]

All I can say as a modest civvy is thank you for your service sir we are indebted to you..

[@mjtaber1974]

Really strong vision and approach to life. Mental health problems can come from anywhere not just trauma. Thanks for being willing to show weakness to allow others to feel strong.