Explaining the M-CARM Tool

Returning to civilian life after service can present physical, mental, and social health challenges. Developed by Gallipoli Medical Research (GMR) in collaboration with RSL Queensland, the M-CARM assesses how veterans are adjusting and reintegrating back into civilian life following service. 

How does the M-CARM work? 

The M-CARM is a 21-item self-administered questionnaire style tool created for veterans so they (or their health provider) can identify where they may face challenges in transitioning from Defence to civilian life. 

The questionnaire assesses five keys factors that contribute to a successful and mentally healthy transition into civilian life, including purpose and connection, help seeking, beliefs about civilians, resentment and regret, and regimentation. 

The M-CARM can be completed via the M-CARM website where it will be automatically scored and results sent via email. Veterans can then view their results and see whether their responses have indicated they may find challenges in these areas.  

How the M-CARM can help you 

Completing the M-CARM can be helpful to support effective collaboration between veterans and clinicians working together, to help guide goals during therapy.  

At Mates4Mates, psychologists, social workers and counsellors can utilise the M-CARM to better work with veterans and support them in a way that is tailored specifically to the individual. 

Completing the M-CARM also grants veterans access to the Go Beyond program, a self-paced online educational program that provides information focusing on the key areas of transitional challenge highlighted by the M-CARM. This online learning can be completed independently by the veteran or with a mental health clinician. 

Support at Mates4Mates 

At Mates4Mates, all clinicians have undergone the training associated with the M-CARM, provided by Gallipoli Medical Research. This also means that clinicians have access to educational modules provided by the Go Beyond program to better educate themselves about the challenges veterans may face during transition. 

Mates4Mates offers veterans access to mental health services, including psychologists, social workers, and counsellors, who can work with veterans to provide support in facing the key areas that may provide a challenge identified in the M-CARM. 

Mates4Mates social connection activities also offer veterans a chance to connect with the Defence community in their local area, helping to support a healthy transition into civilian life. 

For more information about Mates4Mates services and how we can help to support you, reach out to us on 1300 4 MATES (62 837) for a confidential chat.     

Written by Hannah Jarrold, Mates4Mates Psychologist