Connection and wellbeing critical to capability

Connection equals compassionate action and this relies on fostering meaningful relationships, according to Brigadier Caitlin Langford, Defence’s Director General of Mental Health and Wellbeing.

CAPTION: Defence’s Director General of Mental Health and Wellbeing, Brigadier Caitlin Langford, says teams are strongest when each member is respected and valued. Story by Leading Seaman Nadav Harel. Photo by Corporal Jacob Joseph.

Her comments come ahead of World Mental Health Day on October 10, which focuses this year on increasing education, awareness and advocacy around the de-stigmatisation of mental ill-health.

Brigadier Langford said this year’s Australian theme of ‘meaningful connections matter’ resonates with ADF personnel in particular, as they sometimes operate in high-stress and uncertain environments.

“Good teamwork and close connection are critical elements of mission success for the ADF and the Defence Department more broadly,” Brigadier Langford said.

“Our teams are strongest when each member is respected, valued and able to commit themselves wholly to the task.

“If we connect to our personal needs and our own wellbeing, it will allow us to then extend connection beyond ourselves, which ultimately supports team wellbeing and strengthens collective capability.  If we further extend the concept of meaningful connections and its importance to military capability, then we begin to understand the criticality of our people in everything we do.”

She cited demonstrating self-care and supporting the wellbeing of colleagues, family and friends as examples of connection.

“The more we encourage these positive behaviours, the more we reduce stigma and instil a culture where wellbeing is made a priority for everyone,” she said.

“There is a time where everyone has a moment when they aren’t travelling so well. We need to ensure, therefore, that everyone knows how to connect to help and support, where we can talk to family, friends, colleagues and support services in a way that guarantees trust and does not seek to judge.”

Defence was focused on normalising mental fitness and wellbeing through person-focused policies and practices.

“It is only when we live and experience our policies and practices in action that we will start to witness meaningful change,” Brigadier Langford said.

“Looking after our people is fundamental to the duties of commanders, supervisors and workplace colleagues everywhere throughout Defence.”

Policies and practices were being updated in light of lessons learnt across the department and evidence identified by the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide.

Brigadier Langford urged all personnel to embrace the opportunity to connect with colleagues in new and meaningful ways, and encouraged leaders and managers to acknowledge World Mental Health Day in a way that suits their local context.

As the ADF aims for a more compassionate and connected environment, Brigadier Langford said World Mental Health Day was a reminder of the role that mental wellbeing plays in supporting Defence capability effectiveness and resilience.

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