A veteran's journey
When Daniel returned to his wife and children after 13 years in the Navy, he felt he didn’t really have a role or purpose.
Paired with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Daniel found himself in a depressive rut. He was in the middle of what he calls his 'pity party' and was self-medicating on alcohol.
Fast forward to now, Daniel is in a much better mental space thanks to one hobby in particular.
Watch Daniel's story to find out how he went from ‘couch potato’ to active beekeeper.
Finding purpose
In his backyard, Daniel tends to a couple of beehives. Each hive has about 30,000 to 40,000 bees. This is now Daniel’s therapy.
More than just honey
A lot of beekeepers do it for the honey, but Daniel says he does it for the mental health benefits he gains from the bees. The intention and awareness required for beekeeping helps Daniel focus.
Veterans assisting veterans
Beekeeping led Daniel from being stuck indoors to now interacting with others who share the same passion. The Ballarat Veterans Assistance Centre played a major part by sponsoring him for a grant to support his hobby.
About the Ballarat Veterans Assistance Centre
The Ballarat Veterans Assistance Centre supports serving and ex-serving members and veterans of the Australian Defence Force (ADF), their families and supporters.
Their drop-in centre provides a family-friendly social space offering welfare support and advocacy services.
Learn more on the Ballarat Veterans Assistance Centre website.
