The relationship between social connection and PTSD
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health disorder caused by exposure to traumatic events that overwhelm one’s ability to cope. Social connection can help.
Skills for Recovery changes
22 May 2020
With COVID-19 restrictions impacting the way we deliver services nationally, we have made some changes to our Skills for Recovery Programs that were planned for 2020.
Unfortunately, this has meant that we have had to cancel all Rehabilitation Adventure Programs and Equine Therapy Programs for this year.
Our priority is the welfare of our members and staff, and as part of our duty of care, it’s imperative that we follow travel bans and social distancing recommendations set by the Government.
However, with this change comes the opportunity to review our programs and look at alternative ways we can continue to provide Skills for Recovery programs in more accessible ways and develop new programs in the future.
Frequently asked questions
Why have Rehabilitation Adventure Programs and Equine Therapy stopped?
Due to ongoing restrictions impacting the Mates4Mates national service delivery, we have had to review our planned programs for 2020. Unfortunately, this has meant that we have had to cancel all Rehabilitation Adventure Programs and Equine Therapy Programs for 2020. We care deeply about your welfare and our staff, and as part of our duty of care, need to follow travel bans and social distancing recommendations set by the Government.
What will Mates4Mates be providing instead?
Mates4Mates will be introducing a new range of Skills for Recovery programs that can be accessed virtually in the interim with a view to rolling these out when we reopen our doors. Stay tuned!
What does this mean for people living in other states who need services? What can they access?
Veterans and their families can currently access a range of online services, including psychology appointments, physical rehabilitation programs like Pilates and yoga, and other social connection activities delivered via our regional Facebook groups.
To book a psychology or exercise physiology appointment you will need to get a DVA or Medicare referral from your GP. Alternatively, to access social connection and wellbeing programs, join Mates4Mates.
I was previously shortlisted/selected and was not able to attend, when will I have the opportunity to do this program again?
Our Skills for Recovery programs will look a little different moving forward so all new programs that are launched will require a new application, process depending on the type of program.
Will Kokoda be reconsidered in 2021?
Kokoda has been a successful program for many years but we’re looking at different opportunities to offer our Mates in the future.
If you have any questions, please give us a call on 1300 4 MATES during business hours.
