Enjoying a healthy lifestyle is important for every Australian and Veterans’ Health Week this month reminds us that simple things can go a long way to helping someone lead a healthier and happier life — from sharing coffee with a friend, to checking up on a neighbour.
This year Veterans’ Health Week — October 24 to 30 — is all about mental wellness and encouraging members of the veteran community to continue to build resilience, strengthen friendships and promote leadership.
For many members of the veteran community, the effects of war and conflict often remain long after their service ends, so it is important they receive support to live a healthy and happy life.
The week is a great opportunity to celebrate the strengths of our veterans and improve awareness and understanding of health and wellbeing issues.
A range of activities and events will be held during Veterans’ Health Week, from sporting events to tours of inspiring places, right through to simple afternoon tea catch-ups among mates for a laugh and a bit of support.
Information sessions are an important part of the week and I encourage veterans to get along to learn a few hints and tips on the mental health benefits of exercise, nutrition and staying connected. There will also be more specific sessions dealing with mental health conditions, like depression.
Veterans’ Health Week is about supporting our veteran community, providing a pathway to better mental and physical health and ensuring the bonds of mateship forged during their service strengthen with time.
To find out more about activities happening in your area, visit www.dva.gov.au/vhw.htm
The Hon Warren Snowdon MP
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs
