RAISING VETERAN MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS
A book of stories from veterans and their families about their personal mental health journey will assist health professionals and the veteran community better understand the impact of mental health, the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Alan Griffin, said today.
Beyond the Call will raise awareness about mental illness and the important role that families, partners, carers and health professionals play in supporting veterans with mental health issues.
“Poor mental health can have a devastating effect on individuals, as well as those who live with and care for them,” Mr Griffin said.
“We have considerable understanding about the adverse effects of mental health disorders but it remains a difficult issue, subject to powerful stigma. This Government is committed to increasing awareness, understanding and support for those directly and indirectly affected, and Beyond the Call is one part of that commitment.”
Beyond the Call was developed in partnership with the Australian General Practice Network (AGPN), and endorsed by ex-service organisations. It will be distributed to GPs, mental health care professionals, community pharmacists and ex-service organisations.
“GPs and pharmacists play an important role in providing front line help and in guiding veterans and their family members towards appropriate and effective support,” Mr Griffin said. “Beyond the Call will help them gain a greater understanding of the adverse effects of mental health disorders.”
“My Department has recently funded development of an easy to use algorithm for health practitioners, outlining the treatment of adults with Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) and Posttraumatic Stress (PTSD). The Victorian Divisions of General Practice distributed copies of the algorithm to GPs following the Victorian bushfires,” Mr Griffin said.
The website www. at-ease.dva.gov.au also gives veterans and family members a one-stop-shop for mental health advice and services. For a copy of Beyond the Call please email
at-ease@dva.gov.au or call 1800 026 185.
Editors note: Copies of Beyond the Call are available for listener/reader incentives or for media to review. Please email at-ease@dva.gov.au to request.
Media inquiries: Laura Ryan 0437 863 109
The VVCS – Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service can be contacted 24 hours a day, seven days a week on 1800 011 046.
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