How MHPN is supporting veterans and first responders this Remembrance Day

As Remembrance Day approaches on 11 November, a new Mental Health Professionals’ Network is bringing practitioners together to strengthen support for veterans and first responders.

For network coordinator Peta Siggers, the work is personal. A rehabilitation counsellor, Australian Army veteran, daughter of a veteran and partner of a current serving Australian Defence Force Member, she brings both professional experience and personal understanding to the network.

Peta and co-coordinator Dr Alexander Lim, a consultant psychiatrist with a passion for working with veterans and first responders, had long wanted to start a multidisciplinary community of practice for people supporting these communities.

Learning from each other

Peta says supporting veterans and first responders can involve navigating workplace injuries and illnesses, as well as cultural considerations that may differ from those found in other employment settings.

The network brings together practitioners who recognise that no single person or discipline has all the answers. Instead, members have an opportunity to share their perspectives, learn from each other’s experiences and build connections with others doing similar work.

“We are all here to learn and support each other in this important work,” Peta says.

Remembering together

With Remembrance Day approaching, Peta also reflects on the personal significance of the occasion.

Interested in connecting with other practitioners supporting veterans and first responders?

Apply to join the National Veteran and First Responder Health Community of Practice