St John of God Health Care, leaders in mental health care, have announced the launch of a mental health wellbeing program for female partners of veterans. Photo: Swiss Media Vision.
A groundbreaking initiative designed for female partners of veterans will be made available in the Riverina.
St John of God Health Care in partnership with Pro Patria Centre (PPC) is launching the wellbeing program for female partners of veterans next month.
The program will provide a safe space where female Australian Defence Force veterans and the female partners of veterans will receive tailored support.
The St John of God Health Care program aims to reduce psychological distress and feelings of isolation, increase social support and promote psychological wellbeing.
The program will also provide childcare and be scheduled at times that fit with participants’ schedules, reducing the barriers that can prevent access to care.
St John of God Health Care Director of Mental Health Strategy Karen Burns said the program would offer participants a sense of belonging and an opportunity to connect with others with similar experiences and challenges.
“This also encourages peer support and mutual empowerment through sharing successes, problem solving and progress,” she said.
“Witnessing the growth and resilience of fellow group members can inspire individuals to take positive steps in managing their own mental health.”
PPC board director Jacqui Van de Velde said PPC was delighted to have St John of God Health Care running the program specifically for female partners of veterans.
“It’s an amazing opportunity for our female partners of veterans,” Jacqui said.
“We know that from our own survey and what we observed anecdotally, partners are the critical cornerstone in the health and recovery of veterans in their ongoing mental and physical health.
“These amazing people need support too and that’s always been part of our mission – the extension to partners and families.”
Jacqui said PPC was excited to be part of the pilot program and facilitating it.
“It’s a beautiful environment to come and have a program like this.”
The new program is run at no cost to participants and acknowledges the unique challenges faced by female veterans and the female partners of veterans.
Facilitated by trained and experienced female psychologists and other healthcare professionals, the program will increase connections and coping skills while reducing loneliness and psychological distress.
It will enable women to gain confidence in a setting that is tailored specifically for them and their needs, in an open and welcoming environment.
The pilot program will run at Pro Patria Centre over two weeks: 14 to 16 May (week 1) and 21 to 23 May (week 2) from 10 am to 2 pm (lunch provided).
If you’re interested in participating in one of the pilot programs, submit your interest to Pro Patria Centre here or email [email protected] with your name, contact details and best time to call. A St John of God Health Care registered psychologist will contact you for a confidential discussion.
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