Exploring the world, capturing the moments and sharing the journey.
My Journey Through PTSD and Photography
Finding My Way Forward
Life after military service hasn't always been easy. Living with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) has brought challenges that can be difficult to explain, particularly to those who haven't experienced them.
There have been difficult days, moments of uncertainty and times when moving forward has felt harder than it should. But my journey has also taught me something incredibly important:
You don't have to face everything alone.
Sony Alpha 7Cii | Footsteps in sand | 70mm | 1/800 | f/5.6 | ISO 100
Finding Support and Rediscovering Myself
One of the hardest things I've ever had to do was admit that I needed help and find the courage to ask for it.
Through therapy, the encouragement of family and friends, and support from organisations including The Poppy Factory and the Army Benevolent Fund, I gradually began finding my way forward.
Recovery hasn't been a straight road, and there are still difficult days, but I'm in a much better place today.
An important part of that journey has been discovering how much photography could help me.
What started with simply getting outside for a walk, camera in hand, became something far more meaningful. Taking photographs gave me a reason to explore, slow down and focus on the world around me rather than the thoughts occupying my mind.
I began noticing things I might previously have walked past: the changing light, the colours of a landscape, the smallest details in nature and the beauty of everyday moments.
Photography didn't make PTSD disappear, but it gave me something positive to concentrate on, a sense of purpose and moments of genuine peace.
Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max | Grass with rain drops | 2.2mm | 1/120 | f/2.2 | ISO 64
A Different Perspective on Life
Today, photography and videography remain an important part of my life. They've encouraged me to explore new places, develop my creativity and continue looking forward.
I still have difficult days, but I've learned that progress isn't about never struggling again. It's about developing the strength, understanding and support to manage those moments when they arise.
If there's one message I'd like anyone reading this to take away, it's that asking for help may be the hardest thing you'll ever do, but it can also be the most rewarding.
Whether you're a veteran, someone living with PTSD or simply going through a difficult time, please remember that support is available. Reaching out isn't a sign of weakness; it takes real courage.
You may not see it at the time, but with the right support, it's possible to come through the hardest moments stronger, with renewed purpose and a different perspective on life.
I'm incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported me along the way.
My journey continues, one day, one walk and one photograph at a time.
One Life. Countless Moments. Endless Perspectives.
Sometimes, finding a new perspective can help you find your way forward.
Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max | Liverpool Central, May 2026 | 6.8mm | 1/50 | f/1.8 | ISO 125
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One Life. Countless Moments. Endless Perspectives.
Learning photography and videography as part of my recovery from PTSD.
© Simon Garland-Lo · Photography & Film