Service changes people – sometimes in ways that are hard to describe.

For many veterans, current ADF members, reservists and first responders, the weight of repeated exposure to trauma, moral stress, high-stakes decision-making and shift work can build quietly over time. You may notice changes in sleep, mood, energy, confidence, relationships or reliance on alcohol or medication. These are understandable reactions to extraordinary experiences – and they are treatable.

If you or someone you care for is struggling, our team offers timely, confidential and compassionate care that understands the culture of service – and the courage it takes to seek help.

Understanding veterans, defence and first responder mental health

Our program supports people from all areas of service – Australian Defence Force, veterans, reservists, police, fire, ambulance, SES, corrections and other emergency services.

Each person’s story is unique. Some seek help soon after a critical incident, while others notice symptoms emerging long after leaving service. Our trauma-informed, evidence-based approach is designed to meet you where you are – whether stabilising after crisis, navigating medical discharge, or rebuilding wellbeing and connection.

Common presentations include:

• Post-traumatic stress symptoms and complex trauma
• Moral injury, survivor guilt or conflicted values
• Anxiety, depression and adjustment difficulties
• Sleep disturbance, nightmares and fatigue
• Pain, concussion or chronic stress injuries
• Alcohol or prescription medication concerns
• Relationship strain, withdrawal or loss of purpose
• Work-related distress and transition challenges

Signs and symptoms

You may notice:

• Hyper-vigilance, irritability, anger or emotional numbing
• Intrusive memories, flashbacks or avoidance of reminders
• Poor sleep, early waking or disrupted shift-work recovery
• Difficulty concentrating, fatigue or forgetfulness
• Increased reliance on alcohol or medication
• Disconnection from family, friends or colleagues
• Guilt, shame or hopelessness
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide – seek urgent care

When to seek help

Reach out if symptoms:

• Affect work, study, relationships or daily life
• Follow a medical discharge, transition or traumatic event
• Involve increased risk-taking, anger or substance use
• Include thoughts of self-harm or suicide – seek urgent care

Early intervention can reduce distress, prevent escalation and support recovery at home, in the community and at work.

How Avive helps

Avive provides integrated, trauma-informed care designed for veterans, defence and first responders – confidential, respectful and clinically led.

• Comprehensive assessment – psychiatric review, medication reconciliation and risk assessment tailored to service context
• Foundations inpatient care – typically a 21-day stay to stabilise mood, improve sleep, and develop practical coping strategies in a structured environment
• Day programs – 8–12 weeks of small-group therapy (one half-day per week) to consolidate skills, strengthen relationships and maintain progress after discharge
• Assisted therapies – considered where clinically appropriate within our evidence-informed framework following specialist review
• Mind–body support – exercise physiology, pacing strategies, pain management, dietitian-led care and sleep coaching
• Cloud Clinic telehealth – psychiatry and psychology appointments for those in regional areas, on deployment, or managing complex rosters
• Family and partner involvement – with consent, we offer education and support to assist recovery at home
• Transition and return-to-work planning – coordinated with your clinical team, respecting operational and safety considerations
• Every care plan is personalised – considering service history, confidentiality needs, physical health, mobility, culture and personal goals.

Who we help

We support:

• Current and former ADF members, reservists and veterans
• Police, fire, ambulance, SES, corrections and other emergency services personnel
• Families and partners affected by service-related stress – with the person’s consent
• People navigating medical discharge, transition or return-to-work planning
• Respect, privacy and cultural safety
• Confidentiality – your information remains private. Details are shared only with consent or when required for safety.
• Choice and control – treatment decisions are collaborative, supporting autonomy and dignity.
• Cultural respect – we honour diverse experiences and identities, recognising the strength that comes from service and community.

Admissions, costs and referrals

• DVA – we welcome DVA Gold and White Card holders.
• Private health insurance – hospital cover may fund most inpatient costs.
• Mental Health Waiver – eligible patients upgrading cover may access the once-in-a-lifetime psychiatric waiting period waiver.
• WorkCover – we coordinate care and communication with your treating team where applicable.
• Self-funding – options are available.

Our team can confirm eligibility and guide you through the referral process. Contact us on 1800 284 830 or by emailing help@avivehealth.com.au