Members of the Defence community can face unique challenges that can impact your mental, emotional, and physical health. Whether you're an ADF member, a veteran, Reservist or a family member of a Defence member, navigating life requires resilience, support, and access to the right tools.
We have a collection of resources, support services, and practical advice tailored specifically for you. We understand that wellbeing is a continuous journey, not a destination. It's about building resilience, fostering connections, and knowing where to turn when you need help.
A focus on community and connection
The Defence community is built on a foundation of mateship and looking out for one another. A key part of maintaining wellbeing is actively engaging in this support network. Among the important initiatives that promote these conversations are R U OK? Day and Movember.
R U OK? Day: A simple question that can change a life
Don’t wait until R U OK? Day to ask "Are you okay?". At Defence Health we support this initiative because we know that a simple conversation can make a world of difference. It's about more than just asking; it's about being prepared to listen without judgment not just for a day, but all year round.
The R U OK? four-step process is a powerful tool for connection:
- Ask: Start by asking the question genuinely and with an open mind.
- Listen: Give the person your full attention. Let them know you're there for them without interruption.
- Encourage action: Suggest practical steps they can take, whether it's talking to a professional or simply spending time doing an activity they enjoy.
- Check in: Follow up in the days or weeks that follow to show you care and to see how they're going.
Asking for help isn't always easy, and sometimes people don't realise they need to talk until someone asks. By asking, you are showing that you are willing to listen. For more tips on how to start the conversation, visit R U OK? Day
Movember: Standing with our mates
Movember is an important movement that addresses some of the biggest health issues facing men, including mental health, suicide prevention, and prostate and testicular cancer. For many in the Defence community, talking about health, especially mental health, can be difficult. Movember provides a fun and engaging way to start these conversations, challenge stereotypes, and raise vital funds and awareness.
By participating in Movember, we stand in solidarity with our mates, reminding them that it's okay not to be okay and that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Read our articleo
n how to support men you know who are struggling.
Dedicated support for veterans and their families
Transitioning from the Defence force to civilian life can be a complex and challenging process. The Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) and other specialised services are here to provide tailored support for veterans and their families. These services offer personal advice and assistance with the unique challenges you may be facing.
Veteran-specific health advisory services
- Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA): A primary resource for all veteran support.
- General enquiries: 1800 838 372
- DVA Health Services: Department of Veterans' Affairs - Health services
- Open Arms - Veterans & Families Counselling: A dedicated service providing free and confidential counselling to veterans and their families.
- Phone: 1800 011 046
- Defence Family Helpline: Provides 24/7 support for ADF members and their families.
- Phone: 1800 624 608
- ADF All-Hours Support Line: A confidential telephone service for ADF members.
- Phone: 1800 628 036
- Head to Health: A digital mental health portal with information, resources, and services.
- ADF Health and Wellbeing Portal: A comprehensive resource for serving members on health and wellbeing.
Immediate crisis support and helplines
If you, or someone you know, is experiencing a crisis, please seek immediate help. You are not alone, and help is available 24/7.
- Emergency Services: If life is in immediate danger, please call 000.
- Lifeline: Provides 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services.
- Phone: 13 11 44
- Text (SMS): 0477 13 11 14
- Online chat: Online Chat Service
- Suicide Call Back Service: Free, nationwide service that provides 24/7 phone and online counselling to people at risk of suicide.
- Phone: 1300 659 467
- Online chat and counselling: Suicide Call Back Service Online
- Kids Helpline: A 24/7 confidential and free phone and online counselling service for young people aged 5 to 25.
- Phone: 1800 551 800
Comprehensive wellbeing and support services
Beyond crisis support, a wide range of organisations offer resources for ongoing mental health, financial advice, and addiction support. These services provide tools to help you manage daily stressors and build a stronger foundation for your future.
Mental health and general wellbeing
- Beyond Blue: Offers support for anxiety, depression, and suicide prevention.
- Phone: 1300 22 4636
- Black Dog Institute: A medical research institute dedicated to mental health.
- Headspace: A national youth mental health foundation for young people aged 12-25.
- 13 YARN: A national Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander crisis support line.
- Phone: 13 92 76
- Medicare Mental Health: Information on accessing mental health treatment plans and support through the Medicare system.
- MindSpot: Provides free online mental health courses and a phone-based assessment service.
- 1800 RESPECT: The national sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling service.
- MensLine Australia: A 24/7 telephone and online support service for men.
- Phone: 1300 78 99 78
Addiction and financial support
- Alcoholics Anonymous Australia: A fellowship of men and women who share their experiences to help others recover from alcoholism.
- Phone: 1300 222 222
- Al-Anon Family Groups Australia: Provides support for family and friends of alcoholics.
- Phone: 1300 252 666
- ADF Financial Services Consumer Centre
- Army Relief Trust Fund
- Phone: (02) 6144 7857
- Royal Australian Navy Relief Trust Fund
- Phone: (02) 6155 9864
- Royal Australian Air Force Welfare Trust Fund
- Phone: (02) 5130 9486
- Bravery Trust:
- Phone: 1800 272 837
- Narcotics Anonymous Australia: A non-profit fellowship for people for whom drugs have become a major problem.
- Phone: 1300 652 820
- Gambling Help Online: Provides free, confidential, 24/7 support for anyone affected by gambling.
- Phone: 1800 858 858
- National Debt Helpline:Free, independent, and confidential financial counselling.
- Phone: 1800 007 007
Family health care
- ADF Family Health Program
- Phone: 1300 561 454- Claims Enquiries
Support organisations
Mental health and wellbeing apps
Black Dog Institute digital tools
Building resilience and practicing mindfulness
Resilience is more than just toughness; it's the ability to bounce back from adversity and grow stronger from stress. Combining resilience with mindfulness can help maintain balance and clarity, even in the most challenging of times. These are skills that can be learned and strengthened.
Coping strategies that work
Developing healthy coping mechanisms is crucial for managing daily stress. Try incorporating these techniques into your routine:
- Schedule time for relaxation: Deliberately set aside time to unwind and recharge.
- Engage in physical activity or meditation: Exercise and mindfulness practices are proven to reduce stress.
- Break down large tasks: Divide daunting challenges into small, achievable steps.
- Celebrate small wins: Acknowledge your progress, no matter how minor it seems.
- Maintain perspective: Think about the long-term goals and remember that difficult moments will pass.
Building personal resilience
Your resilience is your inner strength. Focus on these areas to build a stronger foundation:
- Know your strengths and values: Understanding what drives you can help you navigate challenges with greater purpose.
- Enhance self-esteem and confidence: Believe in your ability to face and overcome obstacles.
- Nurture supportive relationships: Connect with people who uplift and encourage you.
- Ask for help: Recognise that seeking support is a sign of strength.
- Manage stress and anxiety: Learn and apply strategies to keep your stress in check.
- Refine problem-solving skills: Develop a methodical approach to tackling problems.
Practising mindfulness
Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present in the moment, without judgment. It is about paying attention to your thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations, helping you to stay grounded and calm.
- Seated or mobile meditation: Find a quiet space to focus on your breath, or practice mindfulness while walking.
- Notice sensations: Pay close attention to your breath, body sensations, emotions, and thoughts as they arise.
- Self-acceptance: Acknowledge and accept your current state without trying to change it.
- Listen and observe without judgment: Practice listening to others and observing your surroundings without immediately forming an opinion.