REDUCING the incidence and impact of mental health problems is not just a medical/psychological responsibility, but requires clinical, administrative and personnel management.

This must involve the chain of command at all levels. Early identification, intervention and appropriate management of mental health problems are vital in providing for affected soldiers, their families, their units and the Army. We all have a responsibility to look out for each other.

Although distressing for the soldiers concerned and their mates, mental health problems do not necessarily mean an end to their Army service. These problems can affect any soldier, regardless of rank or corps. Short-term problems in particular are common, generally responsive to treatment and, like all health problems, always treated in a confidential setting.

The tragic outcome of some mental health problems is suicide. The loss of a soldier has a tragic impact, not only on their family and friends, but also their supporting communities and the entire Army family.

Everyone has different levels of tolerance to stress and pain and we all cope as best we can during significant changes in our lives.

While there is no typical suicidal person, there are some common risk factors that everyone should be aware of in an effort to save lives.

• Depression.
• Substance abuse (including alcohol).
• Previous suicide attempt.
• Relationship difficulties.
• Legal or financial trouble.

Sometimes, warning signs can alert us that someone may be contemplating self-harm or suicide.

Some people might not recognise these signs, but it's vital we remember that they are an attempt to communicate, that a person is not coping and that they are overwhelmed by intense emotional pain.

Possible signs are:

• Talk or hints of suicide intent.
• Preoccupation with death.
• Giving away possessions.
• Impulsive anger or behaviour.
• Isolation or withdrawal.
• Performance difficulties.

If you or someone you know feels suicidal, please seek help as soon as possible.

There are a number of support mechanisms within the Army to assist soldiers and their families to deal with a range of issues.

Commanders, chaplains, equity advisers, medical officers, psychology services, and the All Hours Support Line (?1800 628 036) are all available to help.

We should all be part of an Army environment that encourages soldiers to seek help when experiencing mental health problems or to identify which other members of their section or team might be experiencing difficulties that would benefit from mental health assistance.

Commanders can contribute to well-being by providing good leadership, widespread communication, effective administration, and well-organised, realistic training.

All soldiers have a part to play in providing help and support to their mates who, for one reason or another, are travelling poorly.

A significant change in mood or behaviour could be a warning sign that your mate might need your help.

The Australian Army is built on the ethos of mateship. This is as important at home in our day to day lives as it is on the battlefield. Look out for each other and if you need help - get it. The Army needs you.

Where can I get help?

• Unit resources Every soldier's chain of command, medical officers and chaplains can help with a wide range of issues. The chain of command should almost always be your first option for help.
• All hours support line (?1800 628 036). A 24/7 confidential service for soldiers and their families that helps access mental health services, such as psychology and medical support, social workers and chaplains, more easily.
• Army Fair Go Hotline (?1800 100 064). Allows soldiers to raise incidents of unacceptable behaviour, including bullying, harassment, victimisation, verbal abuse and assault.
• Defence Equity Advice Line (?1800 644 247). Provides confidential advice to soldiers who consider they have been subjected to, accused of, or witness to any form of unacceptable behaviour.
• Family Information Network for Defence (FIND - ?1800 020 031). Provides easy access to personnel information on matters of everyday interest or concern such as conditions of service and related administrative matters.

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