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
Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy
GoodMind Therapeutics is dedicated to providing innovative treatment options for Australian veterans struggling with mental health conditions, particularly through the use of psychedelic-assisted therapy. Their diverse and interdisciplinary team comprises physicians, psychiatrists, nurses, psychotherapists, and researchers, all experts in their respective fields.
Nasal Spray Therapy for Persistent Low Mood
GoodMind Therapeutics offers an innovative therapy via nasal spray as a treatment option for patients suffering from symptoms such as feelings of despair or hopelessness, and who have not responded to traditional medications. This prescription-only medicine works by interacting with NMDA receptors in the brain, which play a critical role in mood regulation and cognitive function. By targeting these receptors, this therapy may help alleviate symptoms associated with low mood and feelings of hopelessness in some patients.
DVA patients may be eligible for full funding for this treatment if approved by the DVA.
GoodMind Therapeutics currently administers this therapy only to eligible DVA patients. The treatment is in Sydney. DVA patients can have their eligibility assessed by starting here.
Important things to consider
It is important to note that not all patients and mental health conditions are eligible for these treatments, and the therapies may not be effective for everyone.
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.
