As a member of the defence force or first responder, you're brave. No doubt about it. Brave and resilient. Risking your life for others might be all in a day's work, but the fallout is real.
To the public, our veterans and first responders represent strong authority figures. It's not obvious how these heroes are affected because otherwise, their lives are pretty standard. Just like everyone else, they go to the grocery store, pay their bills and pick up kids from grandparents - but the reality is these high-stress and traumatic jobs have inevitable consequences.
Army personnel and first responders are dedicated to serving others, so it's vital that we understand and support their well-being. Far from being taboo, this support should be a priority.
Mentally Challenging
Defence force personnel and first responders witness human suffering, loss and tragedy on a regular basis. There is no such thing as a standard 9 to 5 day. Without support, these things can take an enormous toll on their well-being and result in anxiety, depression and even PTSD.
Because of the long hours and shift work, these roles can put a strain on marriages, relationships and families. When added to the stressful, often dangerous nature of the work, our heroes can feel isolated as they struggle to connect with others.
*Beyond Blue's National Mental Health and Well-being Study of Police and Emergency Services found that police and emergency services workers are more than twice as likely to experience high or very high rates of psychological distress compared to the general population. And it's worth noting that many people with high distress and probable PTSD won't even report they have an issue.
Physically Demanding
Maintaining a good level of fitness is essential for first responders and defence personnel because they may need them to carry heavy equipment or perform physically difficult tasks. However, the demands of the job can sometimes lead to injuries and long-term health issues, which impact their overall well-being.
It's also not uncommon for defence personnel to be medically discharged due to injuries sustained on the job, and transitioning to civilian life is hard. Leaving a career that's rooted in a strong sense of camaraderie and shared experiences can leave the individual with a sense of loss and disconnection. Not only does the routine and way of life stop, but the community goes, too.
According to the Department of Veteran Affairs, 46.4% of transitioned ADF members are estimated to have experienced a mental disorder in the previous 12 months.**
Each individual experience will vary, and the struggles mentioned above are not exhaustive. However, it's crucial to recognise and address these challenges so we can help first responders and veterans navigate these difficulties and enhance their overall well-being.
Support for our heroes
Good physical and mental health are intrinsically linked.
Physical injuries can impact mental health because we feel frustrated and worried about our health. Some injuries make us more dependent on others, which adds to feelings of helplessness, leading to low self-esteem.
Consequently, mental resilience is crucial to overcome physical obstacles. When we're strong, we focus on the positives and stay hopeful as we recover. This keeps us motivated to rehabilitate and adaptable to our changing circumstances. Mentally strong people are also more likely to reach out and ask for help when they need it.
To fully support our veterans, defence personnel and first responders, we must take a holistic approach, which means we do things that help them both physically and mentally.
Enter – Buddy Up Australia
Buddy Up Australia was set up to keep our heroes firmly in the "well zone". We've created a supportive network, inclusive events and loads of practical resources. Membership to Buddy Up is free and open to current or ex-serving defence members, first responders and their families. We also offer Supporter memberships.
"I am a Navy Veteran, and because of my Mental health struggles, I don't really leave the house, especially socially; however, since joining buddy up and forming friendships within the group, I have attended a number of their events. It is great to be surrounded with like-minded people where there is no judgement or expectations."
Rachael. Buddy Up Member
Buddy Up provides a way for our heroes to connect with other veterans and first responders and to play a meaningful part in the community by volunteering for events and local organisations where they can make a difference.
"Buddy Up has helped me reconnect with like-minded people post-ADF life. The chapter I'm now a part of in Geelong has made me feel part of something I thought I'd never feel again."
Jason, Chapter Leader in Victoria
We're here to empower and support our members while promoting wellness, community engagement, and a sense of belonging. At Buddy Up Australia, we've built a caring and understanding community.
How you can help
Being in the Defence Force or a first responder comes with extraordinary challenges. When we take the time to acknowledge and understand these challenges, we can develop ways to support these courageous individuals to thrive both on and off duty.
This year, we've launched our very first national fundraiser called the Buddy Up Challenge. It's a way you can give something back to those who have given us everything. You can do it solo, with a buddy or with your workmates, and it's a challenge EVERYONE can participate in. We'd love you to be part of our inaugural charity challenge - for more details on the Buddy Up Challenge 2023, email xyz@buddyup.
Join the Buddy Up Challenge this November.
Our heroes will thank you for it.
Sources
*https://www.beyondblue.org.au/about-us/about-our-work/workplace-mental-health/pes-program#:~:text=Answering%20the%20call%20%2D%20Beyond%20Blue%27s,compared%20to%20the%20general%20population.
**https://www.dva.gov.au/sites/default/files/twrp_mhpr.pdf
