Mental health app for ADF members and veterans

A new smart phone application helping current and former serving members of the Australian Defence Force to identify and manage mental health symptoms was recently launched by the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Warren Snowdon.

Demonstrating the app to troops at Robertson Barracks in Darwin, Minister Snowdon said that PTSD Coach Australia was developed to help veterans identify the signs of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and encourage them to seek help.

Based on an app first developed in 2011 for US veterans, PTSD Coach Australia comprises tools for relaxation, positive self-talk, anger management and a scheduler to help users manage their self care, health appointments and other activities.

Snowdon said PTSD Coach Australia was not designed as a stand-alone treatment or self diagnosis, but as part of a toolkit to assist people in managing PTSD.

“This app doesn’t replace clinical assessment and treatment by a qualified mental health clinician.

A Clinicians Guide on integrating PTSD Coach Australia into treatment is available on DVA’s At-Ease website,” he said.

PTSD Coach Australia was developed by the Australian Centre for Posttraumatic Health for the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) and the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and is available for Apple and Android devices.

To download the app visit the App Store, Google Play or the At Ease website www.at-ease.dva.gov.au.