Suicide prevention training for veteran community

A free suicide prevention training program, delivered in partnership with Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling and the Returned and Services League of Australia has been launched online.

File photo by Brian Hartigan

Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester said Suicide Prevention Start was available to anyone who has contact with, or supports the veteran community.

“Veterans’ mental health and wellbeing is everyone’s business – governments, families, friends, employers, community organisations, ex-service organisations and the broader veteran community – and we must all work together,” Mr Chester said.

“Suicide is a national tragedy that affects many of us and this free, self-paced program provides practical guidance on the signs that someone may be contemplating suicide, and how to connect them to help and support.

“Providing access to this free online training is an example of our commitment to improving the mental health and wellbeing of our veterans and their families, and I encourage all those in the ex-service community to complete this potentially life-saving training.”

Delivered in two 90 minute sessions, the online training is open to all current and former ADF members with one day continuous full-time service, their family members and anyone who has contact with or supports the veteran community.

In addition to Suicide Prevention Start, Open Arms has also developed a suite of introductory online training options that includes, Doing Anger Differently, Understanding Anxiety, Recovery from Trauma, and Managing Pain.

For more information on Open Arms programs and services, visit www.openarms.gov.au or call
1800 011 046.

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