Phoenix Australia – supporting veterans affected by the Royal Commission

A message from Phoenix Australia

In August, the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide released its Interim Report, which discusses systemic issues affecting the Australian Defence Force, and contains recommendations to address elevated rates of suicide and suicidality among serving and ex-serving ADF members. In late September, the Government released its response to the report.

Veterans who have followed hearings held across Australia in recent months, read the interim report, or been exposed to related media coverage, may experience negative emotions such as anger and guilt. Those with pre-existing posttraumatic stress disorder or depression may notice a worsening of symptoms.

Additional support

Veterans who notice changes in their mood, substance use or thoughts of harm to themselves or others should reach out for professional support. Those already involved in psychological treatment might discuss with their practitioner whether more frequent sessions are appropriate. Veterans are encouraged to maintain general wellbeing strategies, such as diet, exercise, a regular daily routine and healthy sleep habits. Clinicians should monitor for changes in their clients’ moods and health risk behaviours.

Veterans seeking additional mental health support should visit the Crisis and community support page of the Royal Commission’s website, which provides a list of community and crisis support options for those impacted by the Royal Commission.

Social connection

Self-isolation has been shown to worsen mood and anxiety symptoms and lead to further avoidance of social and work/life activities. Veterans impacted by the Royal Commission are encouraged to seek social connection and support from others including friends, family and peers. A growing body of evidence shows that getting involved in community-based veteran support groups can produce substantial improvements in symptoms, coping and perceived social support among veterans with mental health issues, especially when combined with clinical care.

The media

Veterans whose mental health has been impacted by the Royal Commission will likely benefit from limiting their exposure to news coverage related to the inquiry. With the support of their healthcare providers, veterans should establish a routine that limits general and social media exposure and focuses instead on reliable sources of information, such as the News & media page of the Royal Commission’s website.

The value of military service

Having a positive regard for military service, such as the belief that service has a meaningful purpose, has been linked to good mental health outcomes among veterans. While acknowledging the Royal Commission’s findings may be distressing, remember that the inquiry represents an opportunity for positive change to address mental ill-health among veterans. The Royal Commission’s findings do not detract from the worthiness of a veteran’s service.