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Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester has called the pandemic an “an incredibly challenging time” for veterans and their families, noting a 50 per cent increase in counselling sessions from March to June this year compared to last year.
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Support has been sought through Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling – in a positive step forward in breaking down the stigma surrounding mental health.
“This has been an incredibly challenging time, however, I am heartened that messages about seeking mental health support are being heard, which is reflected in the statistics of veterans and their families contacting Open Arms for specialist support,” Minister Chester said.
“Reaching out for mental health support has never been so important and I encourage veterans and their families who may be struggling, to call Open Arms.
“Open Arms was founded by our Vietnam veterans and is their enduring legacy of ensuring all veterans and their families can access free and confidential mental health support, for which I know they are grateful.”
Dr Stephanie Hodson, Open Arms’ national manager, psychologist and Army veteran, said that contacting a service like Open Arms is an important step that many service personnel find difficult, particularly older veterans and those who served in the Vietnam War.
“In March to June 2020, we saw a marked increase of counselling sessions compared to 2019. During this time, we’ve also seen more veterans coming to us to help manage anxiety before it escalates into something more serious,” she said.
“The coronavirus pandemic has been really tough for all Australians, veterans included. However, the rise in counselling is not necessarily a negative; we’re encouraged that veterans are proactively reaching out.
"There's a common term we use in the military about 'squaring something away', whether it's folding your socks correctly or getting your kit sorted so you can then help those around you. It's not too dissimilar from a mental health perspective – veterans are using our service during coronavirus to square away their anxiety or outlook, so they can get back on track and onto helping others."
Dr David Cockram, an infantry Vietnam War veteran and clinical psychologist, added that pandemic restrictions pose a unique set of challenges for combat veterans.
“For veterans, a sense of not feeling safe can elevate existing mental health issues. For those with PTSD it is very difficult to be confined, making the lockdown restrictions a real challenge,” he explained.
“Engaging in counselling or connecting with peer networks is seen as a safe place for veterans, particularly at the moment. The ability to do this online or over the phone has helped reduce some of the stigma around it.”
