Navigating mental health challenges can be particularly tough for veterans. Thankfully, numerous support services are available through the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) and other organisations dedicated to providing veterans with the help they need. In this blog, we highlight the key mental health support services available to veterans, including those provided by Open Arms, peer support groups, crisis support hotlines, local counselling services, and GoodMind Therapeutics.
Open Arms: Veterans & Families Counseling
Comprehensive Mental Health Services
Open Arms is a premier provider of mental health support services for Australian veterans and their families. Formerly known as the Vietnam Veterans Counseling Service, Open Arms offers a range of services designed to support mental health and well-being:
- Counselling Services: Open Arms provides confidential counselling for a variety of physical, mental and emotional issues, including low mood, relationship problems, and adjustment difficulties.
- Group Programs: Veterans can participate in group therapy sessions that focus on various aspects of mental health, including managing stress, dealing with trauma, and building resilience.
- Workshops and Training: Open Arms offers workshops and training programs aimed at enhancing coping skills and mental health awareness. These programs are available both online and in-person.
Peer Support and Community
A significant aspect of Open Arms’ approach is the emphasis on peer support. Veterans often find solace and understanding in talking to others who have shared similar experiences. Open Arms facilitates peer support initiatives, allowing veterans to connect, share, and support each other in a structured environment.
Peer Support Groups
Building a Community of Support
Peer support groups play a crucial role in the mental health care ecosystem for veterans. These groups provide a safe space where veterans can share their experiences, challenges, and successes with others who understand their journey.
- Benefits of Peer Support Groups: These groups help reduce feelings of isolation, promote a sense of belonging, and offer practical advice from those who have walked the same path.
- Finding a Group: Veterans can find peer support groups through organisations like Open Arms, local veteran service organisations, and community centres. Many groups are now available online, making them accessible regardless of location.
Crisis Support Hotlines
Immediate Assistance in Times of Crisis
Veterans experiencing a mental health crisis can access immediate support through various hotlines. These services provide urgent help and connect individuals to the necessary resources:
- Lifeline: Available 24/7, Lifeline offers crisis support and suicide prevention services. Veterans can call Lifeline at 13 11 14 for immediate assistance.
- Open Arms Crisis Line: Open Arms provides a dedicated crisis line (1800 011 046) offering 24-hour support, including access to counselling and referral services.
- Beyond Blue: Beyond Blue offers mental health support services and a helpline (1300 22 4636).
Local Counseling Services
Accessible and Personalised Care
In addition to national services, many veterans can access local counselling services tailored to their specific needs. These services can include individual therapy, family counselling, and specialised programs for veterans.
- Community Health Centers: Many local health centres offer mental health services for veterans. These centres can provide personalised care close to home.
- Private Practitioners: Veterans may also seek support from private psychologists, psychiatrists, and counsellors. The DVA may also potentially provide funding for eligible veterans to access these services.
- Veteran Organisations: Organisations like the Returned & Services League of Australia (RSL) often have local chapters that offer counselling and support services for veterans.
GoodMind Therapeutics: Specialised Care for Veterans
Clinician Guided Programs for Persistent Low Mood
GoodMind Therapeutics is committed to providing personalised, professionally delivered care for Australian veterans navigating complex mental health challenges. Our Clinician-Guided Programs are available to eligible individuals and are delivered by a diverse, interdisciplinary team—including physicians, psychiatrists, nurses, psychotherapists, and researchers—each bringing specialised expertise to the care process.
Professionally Delivered Programs for Veterans
As part of our Clinician-Guided Programs, we offer professionally supported care for eligible DVA patients who have not experienced improvement through conventional approaches. These Programs are delivered in a safe, clinical environment and tailored to the needs of each individual under the guidance of qualified health professionals.
Eligible DVA patients may be able to access this care with full funding if approved by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA).
Want to Learn More?
To explore whether you may be eligible, start with our screening form, or speak with your healthcare provider.
Important things to consider
Not all individuals or mental health concerns will be eligible for our Clinician-Guided Programs, and outcomes may vary. These Programs are only available following a clinical assessment to determine suitability.
Mental health support services are vital for veterans navigating the challenges of post-service life. Through organisations like Open Arms, peer support groups, crisis hotlines, local counselling services, and specialised care from GoodMind Therapeutics, veterans have access to a comprehensive network of support designed to promote their mental well-being. Understanding and utilising these resources can make a significant difference in managing mental health challenges and improving overall quality of life.
For more information on these services and how to access them, visit the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, Open Arms, and GoodMind Therapeutics websites.
- Feature image from FreePik.
