The mental health and wellbeing for Australian Defence Force (ADF) members, Reservists and their families has been bolstered with a new purpose built app released as part of mental health month.

Minister for Defence Personnel, Darren Chester, said the HeadStrength app would allow users to anonymously check their wellbeing and provide customised information about how to seek the help they need, when they need it.

“The mental health and wellbeing of the entire Defence organisation is an ongoing priority for Government and Defence, and this app is an additional support for current ADF members, Reservists, Defence families, Defence employees and contractors. HeadStrength tracks a user’s mental health and wellbeing over time and provides tailored information relevant to a person’s current level of wellbeing,” Minister Darren said.

The app was developed to build on the ADF approach to mental health screening and in response to recommendations from reviews such as the 2017 National Mental Health Commission Review of Suicide and Self-harm Prevention Services, as well as research studies into the mental health of ADF personnel.

“The app will complement the on-base medical services available to ADF personnel, adding further support to those that may need it. This is an important initiative to ensure our personnel have the right tools to manage and monitor their mental health and wellbeing, and importantly, seek help if they need it,” Minister Darren said.

“I encourage everyone to make use of this valuable resource that has been specifically designed for the Defence community. It is an important addition to the work we are already doing supporting the health and wellbeing of the ADF and veteran community,” Minister Darren said.

HeadStrength is now available to download by those who are eligible to access ForceNet and will be evaluated over the course of the next eighteen months to ensure it is enhanced and remains a key resource for the Defence community.

Aiza Mabayag

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Aiza is a journalist and content writer. She is the content producer of Public Spectrum.

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