Bryan Adams

Active Minds Speaker

Bryan Adams is a professional mental health speaker from Active Minds. His story gives hope a voice.

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About Bryan

Bryan Adams recounts his military service as a sniper in Iraq, being wounded in Tikrit, his physical recovery, and his struggle with mental health issues once he returned to civilian life.

He candidly discusses his PTSD and anxiety disorder, alcohol abuse and depression, and his continuing care.

A dedicated advocate, Bryan offers hope to veterans and active duty service members, and those who care for them. He delivers a message that impacts all audiences—students, school faculty and staff, military personnel and medical professionals alike.

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Bryan’s mental health story began in Tikrit, Iraq in 2008 when he was shot during an ambush while on patrol. Bryan came back to the U.S. to pursue his college degree as a recipient of a Purple Heart, but nothing could prepare him for how rough the transition would be to campus life and his struggles with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Today, Bryan shares his moving story of trauma, stigma, and alcohol abuse with active military, veterans, and civilians alike to reinforce the importance of seeking help. A tireless advocate for veterans rights, Bryan seeks to empower others, and when they cannot speak up for themselves, he hopes that by sharing his story he can speak up for them.

Bryan graduated from Rutgers University with a bachelor’s degree in marketing and an impressive résumé of work with Active Minds, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), and Student Veterans of America (SVA). Bryan is currently the Assistant Director in the Rutgers University Office of Veteran and Military Programs and Services. In that capacity, Bryan is the main point-of-contact for veteran, military, and eligible family members in navigating services within Rutgers University as well as prospective students.

In his free time, Bryan enjoys gardening and grows a variety of fruits and vegetables, which he enjoys cooking and canning. He finds the entire process brings him peace and fosters unity with nature.

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Booking information

Key topics

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Faculty/Staff Trainings
  • Men and Mental Health
  • Substance Use
  • Trauma
  • Veterans/Active Duty Service Members

Presentation options

Bryan options

Bryan recounts his military service as a sniper in Iraq, being wounded in Tikrit, his physical recovery, and his struggle with mental health issues once he returned to civilian life. He candidly discusses his PTSD and anxiety disorder, alcohol abuse and depression, and his continuing care.

This speaker is available to participate in or moderate panels and round-table discussions, and can create unique workshops by request.

Travel information

Bryan travels from New Jersey

View testimonials

“Bryan Adams was excellent! He captivated the student audience for over one hour with his engaging demeanor. He was so easy to related to and as a result, our Veterans Center on campus requested that Counseling Services make a presence in the center. We will be promoting a program initiative specifically to help our student veterans feel part of the ESU community and assist with re-entry into a university community!”

Linda L. Van Meter
Staff Psychologist & Active Minds Advisor
East Stroudsburg University

Bryan’s ability to connect with the audience (of whom were mostly non-veterans) was absolutely remarkable. His compelling story touched everyone in the room and should be given at every college/university in the country.

Active Minds Chapter Member

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