SOCIAL CONNECTION – VETERANS’ HEALTH WEEK 2016
Encouraging health and wellbeing and tackling the challenges faced by veterans and their families is a priority for the Australian Government, Federal Member for Mitchell, the Hon Alex Hawke MP, said to mark Veterans’ Health Week.
Veterans’ Health Week runs from 22-30 October and this year focuses on social connection, with more than 300 events planned around the country.
“Our country owes enormous gratitude to the men and women who serve in defence of our country,” Alex Hawke said.
“Veterans’ Health Week is an opportunity to acknowledge that service and encourage veterans, serving Australian Defence Force personnel, and their families to be pro-active about their health.
“Veterans’ Health Week supports initiatives that keep people connected with their families, friends and communities and provides an opportunity to make new connections through a common cause.
“I encourage veterans and their families to participate in activities and influence the health and wellbeing of themselves, their friends and our community.”
The Department of Veterans’ Affairs has a range of health information, online resources and support services for serving and ex-serving members, including:
• At Ease, a website with a range of resources, tools and apps to help veterans recognise the signs of mental illness and take positive action to tackle stress and stay well. (visit at- ease.dva.gov.au)
• The Veterans and Veterans Families Counselling Service (VVCS) provides free and confidential counselling and support. (visit www.vvcs.gov.au or call 1800 011 046)
• The Men’s Health Peer Education program trains volunteers to provide health information to their veteran peers to help them make informed lifestyle choices about their health (visit https://www.dva.gov.au/health-and-wellbeing/wellbeing/mens-health-peer-education).
For information about Veterans’ Health Week, including details of events around Australia, visit https://www.dva.gov.au/health-and-wellbeing/health-events/veterans-health-week
