#32: The Things We Carry - the darker side of booze

The Things we Carry is a title inspired by a book that had an indelible impact on me, and still does. Tim O’Brien’s ‘The Things They Carried’ changed me in many ways. It explored the depths of the emotional experience of the Vietnam War for soldiers. As an 17 year old, going to a quality school, surrounded by wealth and privilege, it was an eyeopening exploration of things I’d thought about previously, but put to the side because of course, surely they can’t affect me!?! Trauma, death, the duality of man, the lasting impact of war on soldiers and civilians and the ethical questions that come with fighting a war that seemingly doesn’t have a clear point.

The Things We Carry is a look at the internal and external topics that people, particularly men, find difficult to talk about, but carry the impact, the effects, the statistics and the stories along with them. From alcohol to shame to sexuality, racism and big feelings and emotions that drive many of us to dark places, The Things We Carry will explore these challenging topics, but also open up opportunities for growth, development, empathy, understanding and connection. There are dark and difficult themes, as with most of my stuff, but there are also great opportunities for a conversation, learning and opening the door to talking about the hard stuff. Get involved, let us know what you think and check out my new website for an opportunity to book my documentary and for me to speak to your school, workplace or community group.

Welcome to a special series – The Things We Carry – a seven part series by The Ebbs and The Flows on things we find difficult to talk about.

This is episode one: Alcohol and The Darker elements.

The Ebbs and the Flows is an emotional health movement focused on openness and transparency about the light and the shade of the lives we led and journeys we encounter. The Ebbs and the Flows is not a licensed mental health service and therefore if you are seeking mental health advice, assessment or treatment, you should seek expert advice with a GP, psychologist, psychiatrist or in a crisis, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

For those struggling, or who know somebody who is, help is available:

@lifelineaustralia 13 11 14

@beyondblueofficial 1300 22 4636

@headspace_aus 1800 650 890

@kidshelplineau 1800 55 1800

For advice specific to Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander people @13yarn 13 92 76

For LGBTQIA+ specific advice @qlife_aus

1800 184 527

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At the end of the day, we are all just a work in progress.

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