Mate Capin’s story is one of profound transformation. Living in Sweden, after leaving Croatia at a very young age. His path was shaped by a series of defining moments, not the least of which was his decision to join the Croatian Homeland War in the early 1990s, in his early twenties. This decision would alter the course of his life, taking him from the frontlines of a brutal conflict to a long and difficult battle with the scars left by war—both physical and psychological.
In this podcast interview, we take a closer look at Mate’s journey, his struggles with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), his recovery, and how he has used his experiences to become an advocate for veterans and mental health. From his war experiences to his literary career, Capin’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, healing, and the importance of supporting others who have walked similar paths.
Capin’s work extends beyond his personal story; it has become part of a broader mission to destigmatize mental health issues within veteran communities and society at large. He believes that healing begins when people feel understood and supported, and he has dedicated much of his time to fostering an environment where veterans can access the help they need.
In addition to his advocacy, Capin has found writing to be an important part of his healing process. His first book, written in Swedish, reflects his experiences and struggles as a war veteran. However, his most personal and perhaps most significant work is Put Natrag (translated as “The Road Back”), written in Croatian. In this novel, Capin explores the trauma of war, the effects of PTSD, and the journey of a soldier seeking to return to life after combat. Capin is currently working on his third novel, which will be written in English, further expanding his reach to an international audience. The move to write in English reflects his desire to share his story with a global readership and connect with people beyond the borders of his native countries.
As he continues his work, Capin remains focused on providing a voice for veterans and raising awareness about the mental health challenges they face. His website, bunkercapin.com, offers resources, support, and more information about his work as an advocate and author.
Mate Capin’s journey from soldier to advocate, from trauma to healing, serves as an inspiration for others who have experienced similar struggles. His work reminds us that while the scars of war may never fully disappear, the journey of recovery is always possible, and that by sharing our stories and supporting one another, we can build a more compassionate world for those who have borne the heaviest burdens.
Listen to Croatians Online here:
Croatian American Media Association Corp is a tax exempt organization under Section 501 c(3) of the Internal Revenue Code (EIN # 99-1591741). Your donation is greatly appreciated and will be used to support our mission. Your contribution is tax deductible to the full extent permitted by law.
