Phil Jones, a former Royal Marines Commando, served his country for over a decade but found himself battling unseen demons upon his return to civilian life in Swansea. After experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Phil decided to seek help for himself despite dedicating his post-military career to helping others improve their well-being. Phil’s journey is a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by veterans transitioning to civilian life and the importance of mental health support.
Phil’s time in the Royal Marines was filled with both exhilarating experiences and traumatic situations. With operational tours in Afghanistan and a fulfilling career, Phil earned the coveted green beret and represented the elite fighting force with pride. However, the invisible wounds of war began to manifest themselves years after leaving the forces, leading to a diagnosis of PTSD in 2023. This revelation marked a turning point for Phil as he realised he needed to address his own mental health struggles.
Despite running a successful health and well-being company aimed at supporting veterans and the general public, Phil found himself grappling with the effects of combat and the triggers that came with it. Everyday occurrences like the sound of a toilet seat slamming or the sight of Nerf guns became overwhelming reminders of his past experiences. It was at this moment that Phil understood the importance of seeking professional help and began his journey towards healing.
PTSD affects one in 10 people in the UK at some point in their lives, yet there remains limited research on effective treatments in the UK. Phil’s decision to explore cold water immersion therapy as a way to manage his PTSD symptoms demonstrates his resilience and commitment to finding unconventional solutions. By participating in a groundbreaking study at Swansea University, Phil is not only seeking help for himself but also contributing to the scientific understanding of how cold water immersion can benefit individuals with PTSD.
The Swansea University study involves members of the Veterans RV Swansea Community group, which Phil supports, engaging in cold-water dipping and swimming sessions at Caswell Bay in Gower. This innovative approach aims to assess the impact of cold water immersion on cortisol levels, stress indicators, and overall well-being. The initial findings have shown promising results in alleviating PTSD symptoms among participants, paving the way for further research and potential new treatment pathways.
Dr Denise Hill, the lead researcher of the study and associate professor of applied sport psychology at Swansea University, highlights the significance of exploring complementary therapies like cold water immersion for veterans diagnosed with PTSD. The potential benefits of such therapies extend beyond managing PTSD symptoms to improving mental health, well-being, and resilience in individuals facing various challenges.
For Phil, cold water immersion has been a transformative experience that not only helped him manage his PTSD symptoms but also provided a sense of calm and resilience amidst life’s uncertainties. By sharing his story and participating in the study, Phil hopes to inspire and support other veterans who may be facing similar struggles. His dedication to helping others and advocating for innovative treatments underscores the importance of holistic approaches to mental health and well-being.
As the study progresses and more data is gathered, the research team aims to provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of cold water immersion as a therapeutic option for individuals with PTSD. Phil’s involvement in this pioneering research reflects his determination to make a positive impact on the mental health and well-being of veterans and the wider community. His journey is a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for resilience, healing, and growth in the face of adversity.