Back to all posts

Military Transition & Mental Health: A Guide for Veterans

March 12, 2025 | By March Ahead Team
Military Transition & Mental Health: A Guide for Veterans

The Productivity Commission has described leaving permanent military life and adjusting to civilian life as “one of the most profound transitions in the life course of ADF personnel.” For many veterans, this period brings significant challenges that can affect mental health and wellbeing.

Research consistently shows that the transition period is a high-risk time for the development or worsening of mental health conditions. Understanding these challenges — and knowing where to find support — is crucial for navigating this significant life change.

Key Finding: Ex-serving ADF members experience significantly higher rates of mental health conditions than both currently serving personnel and the general population. For example, 17.7% of transitioned ADF members experienced PTSD in the past 12 months, compared to 8.7% of those still serving. (Source: Transition and Wellbeing Research Programme)

Why Transition is a High-Risk Period

The shift from military to civilian life involves far more than changing jobs. It can represent a fundamental change in identity, community, purpose, and daily structure.

Loss of Structure and Identity

Military service provides a highly structured environment with clear roles, ranks, and expectations. Leaving this behind can create what researchers describe as “reverse culture shock” — suddenly navigating an unstructured civilian world where the rules are different and the strong sense of belonging may be absent.

Loss of Community

Military service creates strong bonds. Leaving the ADF often means leaving behind a close-knit community of peers who shared similar experiences. This loss of social connection can contribute to isolation and loneliness, which are risk factors for mental health problems.

Accumulated Stress and Trauma

For some veterans, the demands of service may have taken a cumulative toll. Research shows that many service members request separation when they feel they can no longer maintain the required operational tempo or when physical and mental health concerns have accumulated. The transition period may be when these issues finally surface or become unavoidable.

Practical Challenges

Transition also brings practical stressors including:

Mental Health Conditions During Transition

The Transition and Wellbeing Research Programme found that transitioned ADF members experience higher rates of many mental health conditions compared to both serving members and the general population:

These statistics highlight why the transition period requires particular attention and support.

Warning Signs to Watch For

During and after transition, be aware of changes that might indicate mental health concerns:

If you notice these changes in yourself or a transitioning veteran, seeking support early can make a significant difference.

Support Services Available During Transition

Free Lifetime Mental Health Treatment

Any veteran who has completed one day of continuous full-time service can access free lifetime mental health treatment for any mental health condition through Non-Liability Health Care (NLHC). You do not need to prove that your service caused these conditions.

Veteran Health Check

Veterans who separated from the ADF on or after 1 July 2019 can access one free comprehensive health assessment each year for five years after separation. This helps with early detection of mental and physical health concerns during this critical period.

Open Arms — Veterans & Families Counselling

Open Arms provides free, confidential counselling available 24/7 on 1800 011 046. Services include individual counselling, couple and family support, group programs (including the “Stepping Out” transition program), and referrals to specialist treatment programs.

Veteran Support Officers

Veteran Support Officers work on Defence bases across Australia providing tailored support to ADF members who are transitioning, including help with DVA claims and connecting with services.

DVA Compensation Claims

If your service contributed to or caused any health condition, you should submit a DVA claim as soon as possible. You don’t have to wait for the claim to be approved before getting help — the Veteran Payment may provide support while your claim is processed.

Protective Factors During Transition

Research has identified factors that help protect mental health during transition:

Frequently Asked Questions

I've been out of the ADF for years. Is it too late to get help?

No. There is no time limit on accessing DVA mental health support or making compensation claims. Many veterans don't experience significant mental health difficulties until years after separation. You can access free mental health treatment through Non-Liability Health Care at any time.

Do I need a diagnosis to access mental health support?

No. You can access Open Arms counselling without a diagnosis. For free treatment through NLHC, you need to register for a Veteran White Card, but you don't need to prove your service caused your condition.

What if I left the ADF on bad terms?

Your access to DVA health services and compensation is based on your service, not the circumstances of your discharge. Research shows veterans who separate involuntarily or administratively may face additional challenges, making support even more important.

Book with March Ahead

If you're experiencing mental health difficulties during or after transition, March Ahead can provide an independent psychiatric assessment to support your DVA claim. Our assessments are available with no waitlist and include comprehensive evaluation of all relevant conditions.

Call to Schedule: +61 734 351 513