Next week many Australians will take part in dawn services and commemorative marches, to honour the service of Australian and New Zealand defence force members, like we have done since 1916.
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Though the meaning of Anzac Day hasn't changed significantly in this time, our community has. Service members no longer return home to the shared military culture and community that existed during World War I and II. What is it now like to transition from military service to civilian life? We know from current research many contemporary service members transition successfully, reconnecting with communities and taking up new careers, voluntary roles, sports, and leisure interests.
However, at least one in four find it difficult; because of the impact service has on relationships, employment opportunities, housing stability, and physical and mental health. One in two service members experience a mental illness during the transition from military service to civilian life. Rates of traumatic injuries and physical health conditions, including arthritis and chronic pain, are also relatively high.
Considering the complex and often traumatic nature of military service, it's not surprising many service members are reluctant to talk about experiences. It can be difficult to talk about mates lost or about experiences that are ethically ambiguous; "was what I did right, or wrong?" It can be difficult to describe how the loss of military identity, culture and community has impacted who you are today. So these thoughts and feelings are often withheld. This tends to lead to an increase in physical and mental health symptoms such as sleeplessness, pain, fatigue, loss of concentration, and loss of interest in everyday life.
What can we do? On Anzac Day, it is important to say "thanks for your service", to acknowledge the incredible sacrifices service members make. We can also provide opportunities for service members to talk about their experiences. Family members, friends, colleagues, and health professionals can start a conversation by asking questions like "When and where did you complete service in the military?" Think about Anzac Day as an opportunity to open up lines of communication, and increase your understanding of the many and varied impacts of war. Open conversations can promote healing, recovery and reconnection.
Kylie Carra, PhD student La Trobe University.