Mental Health on Remembrance Day: Honouring the Past and Supporting the Present
Remembrance Day, observed every year on November 11, serves as a solemn occasion to honour the service and sacrifices made by members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) who have fought and died in wars and conflicts. This day provides a chance for us to reflect on the immense contributions of those who served in the military and the sacrifices made by their families. While the day is largely focused on remembering the fallen, it is also an important opportunity to acknowledge the mental health challenges faced by both veterans and current ADF personnel, as well as their families, many of whom continue to carry the emotional and psychological toll of service long after the fighting has ended.
Though Remembrance Day often conjures images of wartime heroism and sacrifice, it also brings to light the ongoing struggles faced by those who return from service. The psychological and emotional scars of war do not always fade with time, and for many veterans, the fight continues long after they leave the battlefield. In recent years, there has been growing recognition of the importance of mental health care for veterans and current personnel. However, much work remains to be done in ensuring that the mental health needs of those who have served in the military are met.
The Mental Health Impact of Military Service
Serving in the military is often physically demanding and emotionally taxing, especially for those deployed in combat zones. ADF personnel are exposed to a range of stressors—prolonged periods of separation from loved ones, intense training, exposure to trauma, and the challenges of reintegration into civilian life—that can have a lasting effect on mental health.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): One of the most well-known mental health conditions experienced by veterans is PTSD, a condition triggered by exposure to life-threatening events, including combat. PTSD can lead to flashbacks, nightmares, and heightened anxiety, severely impacting a veteran's ability to lead a normal life. PTSD affects many veterans who served in conflict zones, and it is often compounded by a lack of adequate mental health support.
Depression and Anxiety: The stresses of military service, including the pressure to perform, the physical toll, and the emotional burden of combat, can lead to long-term feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and anxiety. Many veterans struggle with depression upon returning to civilian life, where they may face isolation, difficulty adjusting, or a lack of purpose.
Moral Injury: This term refers to the psychological distress that arises when an individual’s actions or experiences during service conflict with their deeply held moral beliefs. For some ADF personnel, war can challenge their sense of morality, leading to feelings of guilt, shame, and a loss of meaning or purpose.
Substance Abuse and Suicide: To cope with the emotional and psychological toll of service, some veterans turn to alcohol or drugs. While substance use may provide temporary relief, it often exacerbates mental health issues and can lead to addiction. Tragically, the mental health crisis among veterans is further compounded by a disproportionately high suicide rate. Veterans are at a much higher risk of suicide than the general population, a fact that underscores the urgent need for mental health support.
Physical Injuries and Mental Health: Physical injuries sustained during service—such as amputations, chronic pain, or mobility issues—can have a significant psychological impact. The emotional toll of living with a disability, especially when combined with the trauma of military service, can lead to depression and anxiety. Veterans who return with significant physical injuries may also experience a sense of loss of identity or struggle to adjust to new limitations.
The Transition to Civilian Life: Returning to civilian life after serving in the ADF can be a jarring and difficult process. The structured, mission-focused environment of the military is very different from the civilian world, which can leave veterans feeling lost or disconnected. Without the strong sense of community and shared purpose that comes with military life, veterans may struggle with loneliness and a lack of direction. The sense of isolation is particularly acute for veterans who have experienced trauma and struggle to find others who understand their experiences.
The Stigma Around Mental Health in the Military
One of the most significant barriers to addressing mental health issues among ADF personnel and veterans is the stigma that still exists within military culture. The military places a premium on toughness, resilience, and strength, which can create an environment where mental health struggles are seen as weaknesses. This stigma prevents many service members from seeking help, fearing that it might damage their career or tarnish their reputation. This culture of silence surrounding mental health can have devastating consequences. Service members may suffer in silence, avoiding treatment and allowing their mental health conditions to worsen over time. This can lead to feelings of isolation, frustration, and, in some cases, tragedy.
Remembrance Day: A Time to Reflect on Mental Health
While Remembrance Day is focused on honouring those who gave their lives in service, it also serves as a crucial moment to reflect on the mental health challenges faced by veterans and active-duty personnel. Acknowledging the mental health impact of service is an essential part of honouring the sacrifices made by those who have served. On Remembrance Day, we must not only commemorate the fallen but also recognise the living—those who have survived the physical and emotional ravages of war. It’s a day to remember that many service members and veterans continue to carry the weight of their experiences, and that these struggles are just as significant as any battle fought on the frontlines.
Taking Action: Support for Mental Health
The mental health of ADF personnel and veterans should be a national priority, not just on Remembrance Day, but year-round. Addressing the mental health needs of veterans requires a multifaceted approach, one that involves both improving access to care and changing the culture around mental health.
Increased Access to Mental Health Services: The Australian government has made strides in improving access to mental health services for veterans. However, more must be done to ensure that mental health services are not only available but are easily accessible and able to meet the diverse needs of veterans. This includes expanding services in rural and remote areas, where access to care can be limited, and ensuring that veterans and their families are aware of the support available to them.
Reducing Stigma and Encouraging Open Conversations: It’s essential to create a culture where mental health struggles are seen as a normal part of the human experience and not a weakness. The stigma around seeking help for mental health issues must be dismantled, especially within the military. Leaders within the ADF, as well as veteran organisations, must continue to emphasise that asking for help is a sign of strength, not a failure. Encouraging open dialogue about mental health and promoting self-care as a part of overall well-being can help normalise seeking help and reduce the fear of judgment.
Peer Support Networks: Peer support programs, where veterans can connect with others who have shared similar experiences, can be incredibly powerful. These programs provide veterans with a sense of community and understanding that can help alleviate feelings of isolation. Peer support groups and initiatives like are vital resources that offer veterans a space to talk, share experiences, and support each other in their mental health journeys.
Comprehensive Family Support: Mental health support for veterans must extend to their families, who often bear the emotional burden of their loved one’s trauma. Family members need education and counselling to help them cope with the challenges that come with supporting someone who has experienced the psychological impact of military service. By providing family-centred support, we can help strengthen the overall system of care and ensure that veterans have the resources they need to heal.
Investment in Prevention and Early Intervention: Early intervention is critical in preventing mental health issues from escalating. Providing mental health training for military personnel, conducting routine mental health screenings, and offering resilience-building programs are all strategies that can help identify and address issues early on. By focusing on prevention, we can reduce the likelihood of veterans experiencing severe mental health problems later in life.
Commitment to Action
On November 11, as we pause to remember the bravery and sacrifices of the men and women who served our nation, we must also acknowledge the ongoing mental health challenges they face. It is not enough to simply honour the past; we must ensure that the needs of those who have served are met in the present. Let us commit to providing the support and care that our veterans and ADF personnel deserve. Let’s break the silence, reduce the stigma, and ensure that mental health is treated with the same urgency and respect as physical health. The brave men and women who have served our country deserve nothing less.