Stronger we Stand: Free online support for veteran families and carers

The Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide found that there exists significant ‘challenges for families trying to support and care for their loved ones who are serving or have served in the ADF’ (p.70).

This program aims to address this challenge by providing flexible, online support and education that empowers families and carers supporting a loved one.

This program is funded by Open Arms and offers free online psychoeducation and peer support programs for families and carers of veterans experiencing suicidal distress, or who have been bereaved by the suicide death of a veteran loved one.

All programs are facilitated by a mental health clinician and peer worker, with the option for an individual safety net session with a worker if requested by the participant.

Key sessions available include:

• Supporting veteran experiencing suicidal distress
• Coping with suicide bereavement
• Advocacy and overcoming stigma
• Understanding PTSD, trauma, and its impact on families
• Self-care and staying connected during times of suicidal distress
• Connecting with services, supports, and the community
• Mental & physical health and alcohol & other drugs

More information can be found on the Open Arms website. Referrals are accepted by service providers, self referrals encouraged and can be made via the website.

Download the flyer for more information.

The Stronger we Stand team can be contacted at strongerwestand@gph.org.au or on 1800 929 101.