Keeping military in mind: The Royal Australian & New Zealand College of Psychiatrists' Military and Veterans' Mental Health Network. (June 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wallace, Duncan; Meurk, Carla; McKay, Diana; Khoo, Andrew; Lane, Jon; Heffernan, Ed
• Is Part Of: Australasian psychiatry. Volume 28:Number 3(2020:Jun.)
• Page Start: 274
• Page End: 278
• Publication Date: 2020-06
• Subjects: military mental health -- veteran mental health; Psychiatry -- Australasia -- Periodicals; Psychiatry -- Periodicals; 616.89005
• DOI: 10.1177/1039856219895199
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1039-8562

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study is to introduce The Royal Australian & New Zealand College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP) Military and Veterans' Mental Health Network (The Network) and profile its inaugural members. Methods: We implemented an online survey of demographic, professional and practice characteristics of network members; self-rated knowledge of military and veterans' mental health; reasons for joining The Network; and suggestions as to how The Network could best support members' needs. Quantitative survey responses were analysed descriptively. Qualitative responses were analysed thematically. Results: Thirty-two out of 60 network members returned the survey. The membership was predominately male and 50 years of age or older. One-half had completed their fellowship or specialty 20 or more years ago. A high level of self-rated knowledge with respect to the assessment and management of current and ex-serving military personnel was reported. Knowledge of the assessment and management of current and ex-serving emergency services personnel was lower. Conclusion: There are RANZCP members with an active interest, expertise and knowledge in the field of military, veterans' and emergency services personnel mental health; this affirms the significant role the RANZCP can play in this area. There is a need to expand, diversify and ensure sustainability of the workforce.