Sam Booth

Recently, we spoke with Sam Booth, a veteran who received therapy through PTSD Resolution earlier this year. Now a facilities manager, Sam got in touch to share his story of transformation—and the reason behind his ongoing fundraising efforts.

From Submarine Service to Civilian Struggles

“I spent eight years working as a submariner in the Royal Navy. I loved my job—I was away for four or five months of the year and visited plenty of foreign ports. But after seven years’ service, I decided to leave. My wife was expecting our second child and having missed so much of our first-born’s life, I wanted to be there.”

Sam left the Navy in March 2017 and went straight into work, surrounded by fellow ex-Navy colleagues. At first, it felt like he had never left. But within eight months, things started to unravel at home.

“I was constantly arguing with my wife. While never physically violent, our explosive rows often ended with things being thrown around the house—in front of our daughter. Weeks would pass without speaking. Every question was met with anger.”

A Breaking Point—and a Turning Point

In December, his wife told him she planned to end the marriage after Christmas. Sam quietly packed a bag and left, spending a few days at his father’s house. When he returned, they had a calm and honest conversation.

“She suggested I might need to get some help—and that it could be the only thing to save our marriage.”

Sam searched online for support for ex-forces personnel and found PTSD Resolution. He was quickly paired with a local therapist, just a few miles from home.

Recovery and Resilience

“I often felt angry and stressed during sessions, but I always came home feeling better. My wife started to notice the difference too. As weeks passed, our sessions felt more like informal chats—and I was more relaxed and happy.”

Family life dramatically improved. His wife and daughter were happier, and one by one, symptoms like insomnia began to fade. At the suggestion of his therapist, Sam began running to relieve stress.

“That week, I took up running and I’ve been running ever since. In May, I took part in the Greater Manchester Half Marathon and signed up for another in October. I plan to run a full marathon in April 2019—all in aid of PTSD Resolution.”

From Struggle to Supporter

Sam's fundraising is not just about giving back, it’s about raising awareness.

“Although I didn’t go to a war zone, leaving the military and adjusting to civilian life had a huge impact on my mental health. There’s no shame in admitting that. Sometimes you just need a bit of help—and that’s okay.”

“Being in the Armed Forces gives you structure—housing, wages, stability. Leaving it all behind and suddenly being responsible for everything is overwhelming. I hope my story helps others realise that coping on Civvy Street is possible—but it’s okay to ask for help.”