Open Arms expands group program delivery for the veteran community
Now included are online introductory training on suicide prevention (Suicide Prevention START, developed by LivingWorks), Doing Anger Differently, Understanding Anxiety, Managing Pain, Recovery from Trauma, and Sleeping Better.
These online groups will introduce participants to both the connection between the thoughts and behaviours that impact an identified problem, and provide strategies that can help. Although the online versions have not been designed to replace face-to-face groups, they aim to equip you with knowledge and support that may be helpful. For example, Suicide Prevention START can be completed at your own pace (usually in 60-90 minutes) to either learn or refresh your skills to identify and support people with thoughts of suicide. The other online workshops include two 90 minute group sessions.
Open Arms remains committed to helping build and support safer communities for our veterans and their families through the flexible delivery of online training, in addition to our existing face-to-face group programs and workshops suite. As restrictions start to lift in each State and Territory, Open Arms is reviewing and progressively reintroducing face-to-face groups across Australia. All groups delivered by Open Arms are scheduled on demand, and are provided at no cost to participants.
Mental health and suicide prevention workshops are open to anyone looking to learn practical skills for helping a family member, friend, co-worker or other person in the veteran community.
Face-to-face group treatment programs range from one day to six weeks. They teach you the skills and strategies to manage the thoughts and feelings that worsen symptoms commonly experienced in the veteran community. Current and ex-serving ADF members, partners, and adult children are eligible for these programs.
If you would like to find out more, you can contact Open Arms 24/7 on 1800 011 046 or register your interest through the Open Arms website at https://www.openarms.gov.au/.
