Signs to Watch For, How to Help, and Where to Get Support
Supporting a veteran doesn’t always require knowing the right words. Sometimes, it starts with simply noticing that something isn’t quite right. Many veterans carry invisible burdens long after their service ends, and those closest to them are often the first to sense when they’re struggling. Knowing what to look for, how to respond, and where to turn for support can make a meaningful difference.
Struggle doesn’t always look dramatic. It can be quiet, gradual, and easy to miss. Understanding the signs and acting early can help prevent situations from escalating into crisis.
Understanding Why Veterans May Struggle
Life after service can bring unexpected challenges. The transition from Defence to civilian life often involves changes to identity, routine, income, and social connection. Combined with experiences from service, these shifts can affect mental health, relationships, and overall wellbeing.
Veterans may hesitate to speak up for many reasons - pride, fear of burdening others, or concern about stigma. This is why support from friends and family is so important. Often, the people closest are best placed to notice subtle changes and offer help.
Signs a Veteran May Be Struggling
Struggles can show up in many ways, and no two people are the same. Some signs are obvious, while others are more subtle. Paying attention to patterns rather than isolated moments is key.
Emotional and Behavioural Signs
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Withdrawal from family, friends, or activities they once enjoyed
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Increased irritability, anger, or mood swings
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Feelings of hopelessness, guilt, or being a burden
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Loss of motivation or sense of purpose
Mental Health Indicators
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Anxiety, panic attacks, or constant worry
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Symptoms of depression, such as persistent sadness or fatigue
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Nightmares, flashbacks, or difficulty sleeping
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Increased use of alcohol or other substances
Practical and Lifestyle Changes
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Financial stress or difficulty managing bills
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Trouble maintaining employment or routine
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Neglecting personal care or household responsibilities
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Relationship strain or frequent conflict at home
Not every sign indicates a serious problem, but several occurring together—or worsening over time - may suggest the person needs support.
How to Start the Conversation
Starting a conversation can feel daunting, especially if you’re worried about saying the wrong thing. The most important thing is to approach the conversation with care, honesty, and patience.
Helpful approaches include:
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Choose a quiet, private moment
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Speak from concern, not judgement
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Use simple, direct language
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Listen more than you speak
Phrases like “I’ve noticed you haven’t seemed yourself lately and I’m worried about you” can open the door without putting pressure on them to explain everything at once.
You don’t need to have solutions. Being present and willing to listen is often more powerful than offering advice.
How You Can Help in Practical Ways
Support doesn’t always mean fixing the problem. Small, consistent actions can ease the load and help someone feel less alone.
Ways to offer support include:
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Checking in regularly, even with a short message
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Offering help with practical tasks like appointments or paperwork
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Encouraging professional support without forcing it
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Staying connected, even if they push back initially
If a veteran isn’t ready to seek help, respecting their pace while keeping the door open is important. Let them know you’re there whenever they’re ready.
When Immediate Help Is Needed
Sometimes, a situation requires urgent action. If a veteran is expressing thoughts of self-harm, talking about feeling trapped, or showing signs of crisis, it’s important to seek immediate support.
You are not overreacting by asking for help. Acting early can save lives.
In emergencies, contact local emergency services or a crisis support line. For veterans, reaching out to organisations experienced in veteran care can provide specialised assistance and guidance.
Where to Get Support
You don’t have to navigate this alone. There are organisations that understand the unique challenges faced by veterans and their families and can provide appropriate support.
Support options may include:
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Veteran-specific charities and support organisations
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Counselling and mental health services
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Emergency financial or housing assistance
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Peer support programs and community networks
Wounded Heroes Australia provides support to veterans and their families during times of crisis and transition. Whether the need is immediate or ongoing, reaching out can be the first step toward stability and recovery.
If you are concerned about a veteran in your life, you can learn more or seek assistance through www.woundedheroes.org.au.
Supporting Yourself as Well
Caring for someone who is struggling can take an emotional toll. It’s important to recognise your own limits and seek support for yourself if needed. Supporting someone else doesn’t mean sacrificing your own wellbeing.
Talking to a counsellor, joining a support group, or reaching out to trusted friends can help you stay grounded and resilient. When you are supported, you are better able to support others.
The Power of Early Action
Many crises can be prevented when support is offered early. A conversation started today may stop a situation from worsening tomorrow. Early action doesn’t require perfection—it requires compassion and willingness.
Veterans often respond positively when they feel understood and supported rather than judged or pressured. Your concern, patience, and presence can be a powerful protective factor during difficult times.
Closing Thoughts
If you suspect a veteran friend or family member is struggling, trust your instincts. Noticing the signs, starting a conversation, and seeking support can change the course of someone’s life. You don’t need to have all the answers - showing care and taking action is enough.
No veteran should face hardship alone, and no family member or friend should feel helpless. Support exists, and reaching out is a sign of strength, not failure.
If you’re unsure where to start or need guidance, support is available through Wounded Heroes Australia. Together, through awareness, compassion, and action, we can ensure that veterans and their families receive the care and support they deserve - when they need it most.
