Veteran Mental Health

In the lead up to ANZAC Day on Thursday, 25th April, our thoughts turn to those currently serving, those who have served and those who continue to bear the unseen burdens of service life. As we honour their sacrifices, it’s crucial to spotlight the psychological challenges faced by veterans, especially during their transition back to civilian life.

Rates of suicide: Did you know?

When we compare suicide rates in the Australian Defence Force (ADF) to the general population, we see differences. Currently serving ADF men have lower suicide rates than the average Australian man. Permanent male servicemen have a 49% lower rate, and male reservists have a 46% lower rate. However, once they leave the service (how they leave can affect this), ex-serving men and women have higher suicide rates compared to civilians. Ex-serving men’s rate is about 27% higher, while ex-serving women’s rate is more than double (107% higher) than the general Australian female population.

Though ex-serving women have a notably higher increase, fewer of them (in raw numbers) die by suicide compared to ex-serving men.

Possible Explanations

Transitioning from military to civilian life has the potential to pose significant challenges, similar to other major life changes such as starting a new job, becoming a parent, or facing illness. Research and discussions with veterans highlight several possible issues contributing to higher suicide rates among ex-military personnel, although these findings do not apply to all veterans:

• Loss of Identity and Self-Esteem: Leaving the structured and hierarchical environment of the military, where individuals are often viewed with respect, can, for some, result in a profound loss of identity and diminished self-esteem.
• Loss of Social Supports and Loneliness: The strong camaraderie and community in the military can be hard to replicate in civilian life, leading some veterans to feel isolated and disconnected.
• Loss of Motivation and Purpose: The clear mission and purpose in military life can be hard to rediscover in civilian life, contributing to a loss of direction and motivation for some veterans.
• Feelings of Boredom and Restlessness: The contrast between the structured, purpose-driven military life and the sometimes slower-paced civilian life can cause disorientation, boredom, and restlessness.

“I expected I would quickly land on my feet. I packed up my uniform in a trunk and pushed it under my bed, along with parts of my identity and my ego. I was a fraction of myself, though I didn’t know it at the time. What followed was a busted relationship with an amazing woman, several failed attempts at my next career move, and a reliance on drugs and alcohol, unsuccessfully, to get through my days.” – 10-year Army Officer and Veteran.

Insights: Navigating Life’s Transitions

Finding Your ‘Why’ Post-Transition: 

Two poignant quotes offer insights into possible solutions for those navigating post-military life transitions that can be generalised to all transitional periods in life.

“The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why.” — Mark Twain

“He who has a why to live for can bear almost any how.” — Friedrich Nietzsche

Your ‘why’ can be a powerful anchor during challenging times. It might be the simple joys of daily life, such as art or leisure, making an impact on peoples’ lives through your work, or enhancing the well-being of your family. Reflecting on what truly matters can provide clarity and motivation to overcome challenges. It’s really worth thinking about your deeper purpose!

Strengthening Social Connections:

Transitions, whether moving from military to civilian life or undergoing other significant life changes, place a magnifying glass on the quality of our social support. Loneliness is a profound health risk that spans various life stages, with transitioning veterans often facing steep challenges.

Engaging in meaningful relationships is crucial, far more so than simply increasing the number of social interactions or relying on digital connections. By nurturing high quality relationships, individuals can enhance their social networks, providing not just comfort but a significant buffer against the strains of change.

Invest your time and energy in relationships that uplift and support you, steering clear of those that bring you down. 

Reflect and Act On Things that Make You Feel Good:

Reflect on accessible, achievable things that make you feel good about yourself. Schedule them in your calendar, set reminders, and commit to them. Treat this commitment as if your life depends on it. In the long-term, maybe it does.

Work out what works for you and commit!

E.g:

• Schedule 15 minutes of morning sunlight.
• Set a reminder for a daily carb limit under 20g, or aim for days with ZERO processed food.
• No screen time after 6pm.
• Plan for a cold shower, a hot sauna, or both.
• Block out 20 minutes for exercise.
• Dedicate 5 minutes to controlled breathing/box breathing/physiological sighing.
• Spend more time with people who are helping you to be better and less time with those who bring you down.

Know a Veteran? Not Sure How He or She is Going?

Some of the more common warning signs and symptoms among military members and veterans.

While we consistently emphasise that any change in behaviour from an individual’s baseline, or anything out of character, could be indicative of a decline in mental health or progression towards mental ill-health, research has revealed some of the more common signs among military members and veterans that can be a precursor to the development of more serious mental health issues. These include:

• Sleep issues
• Withdrawal/disengagement
• Anger/irritability
• Increased substance use (drugs, alcohol – ‘maladaptive coping’)

A lesson for all:

Intervening early to target the emerging symptoms of mental ill-health is one clear way to mitigate the risk of symptom escalation. 

How You Can Help A Veteran (or anyone that might be struggling):

When it comes to supporting veterans and recognising signs of mental health struggles, your actions can make a significant difference. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Build Rapport: Establishing trust and understanding is crucial. Show genuine interest in the veteran’s well-being and create a safe space for open conversation.
2. Know Their Well-being Baseline: Be familiar with the veteran’s typical behavior and mood. If you notice any changes that seem out of character, approach the situation with curiosity and compassion rather than judgment.
3. Guide Towards Support Pathways: Familiarise yourself with available support services and resources. When appropriate, gently encourage the veteran to seek professional help tailored to their needs. Nudge them towards these support services and resources; don’t nag!

Support Options for Veterans:

Veterans facing mental health challenges should not have to do so alone. Professional support, tailored to the unique needs of those who have served, is crucial.

• LIVIN: We are always happy to help point you in the right direction.
• GP: Book an appointment, have a chat, ask about a Mental Health Treatment Plan and referral to a psychologist (potentially a psychologist from the two organisations listed below). This treatment should be covered by DVA.
• Veterans Psychology: Veteran-informed psychologists, providing veteran-focussed services. https://www.veteranspsychology.com.au 
• Online Psychologists Australia: Several veteran-informed psychologists available, providing ‘the right help, anywhere’. https://www.onlinepsychologist.com.au/ 

For those who have served and are struggling. 

For the family members and friends of those who have served and are struggling. 

For any of you who might be struggling. 

Remember, It Ain’t Weak to:

• Speak up when you’re struggling
• Speak to your mates when they are struggling
• Seek help when you’re struggling
• Seek help for your mates
• Seek information and understanding