Social Futures Veterans Connect service is encouraging veterans of all ages to plan for their future wellbeing by accessing available support systems before a crisis occurs.
Gosford Team leader Eleanor Newton said the journey after service was different for everyone, which was why support for Veterans needed to be flexible.
“Some people find their footing with ease when they return from service, however many others face hurdles with relationships, employment, and their mental and physical health,” she said.
“The experiences of service can leave a lasting mark, and without the right support, these challenges can grow over time.
“That’s why reaching out for help isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a proactive step towards building a healthy future life.”
Leaving the structured environment of the military, and with it the sense of community, purpose, and identity that comes with service, can be incredibly difficult, Newton said.
This transition period is often when challenges first begin to appear, and delaying help can compound them.
“Getting support before you get older and really need it is important,” she said.
“So many older veterans come to us, and they have needed help for years and years.
“Waiting until a crisis hits can make finding solutions much more difficult.
“Planning for the future means putting support systems in place before you desperately need them.
“This can involve everything from understanding your entitlements to building new community connections.”
Understanding and accessing the support you’re entitled to as a returned service person can be overwhelming.
If you are struggling to navigate the services, a Veterans Connect Care Co-ordinator can help find a way forward with support and referrals.
They will act on your advice and provide choices, helping to connect with: physical and mental health services such as GPs, allied health professionals (physio, podiatrists etc); with social and community services; and helping to increase overall health and wellbeing.
Another benefit of using a support service is utilising their knowledge and networks.
“It is having someone in your corner who understands, and who can help find providers who also understand the veteran experience,” Newton said.
Some veterans find it challenging to locate specialists who accept DVA cards for payment and unfortunately, even with the right card, access can be a hurdle.
“For some, it’s hard enough to reach out, so when they reach out and the doors are closed, it’s very, very challenging,” Newton said.
“But that is why we are here; we have done the searching, so you don’t have to.
“Don’t wait for a crisis to force you to act.
“Whether you finished your service last month or decades ago, it’s never too early or too late to put a plan in place.”
Social Futures Veterans Connect can help navigate the system, understand your entitlements, and connect with healthcare and community services.
To contact Veterans Connect on the Central Coast or in the Hunter region, call 1800 719 625 or email veteransconnect@socialfutures.org.au.
Social Futures has offices in Gosford, Narara and Wyong.
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