Our phone lines stay open 365 days a year

For current serving, veterans and their immediate families who may be struggling with their mental health over the holiday season, please know support is available day or night, 365 days of the year. 
You can contact our free, military-aware mental health support 24/7 on ☎️ 1800 011 046 

For free and anonymous support, call Safe Zone. ☎️ 1800 142 072  

In the event of an emergency, please contact 000.

Office closures

Open Arms offices will be closed from Thursday 25 December 2025 to Thursday 1 January 2026. 
They will reopen on Friday 2 January 2026.

Veteran spouse unwraps how to stay connected

For veterans who may be feeling lonely over the holiday season, veteran Navy spouse Cheree has a few tips on how to turn things around and also put your mental health first.   
‘If you are invited to go somewhere, make yourself go,’ she suggested.
‘Keep it casual so it’s no big deal if you decide not to go at the last minute.
‘We’ve all been to things where we didn’t want to actually go and end up having the most fantastic time.’ 
She also urged veterans to reach out for help and support if they are feeling overwhelmed. 

Look after your own health and wellbeing

It is also OK to not put yourself out there if you are not feeling up to it. Give yourself permission to put your health and wellbeing first so that you can enjoy socialising when it is right for you.
Taking rest breaks and maintaining your sleep and exercise regime can also help you get through the holiday season.
Remember, if you need to debrief or talk to someone who understands, Open Arms’ telephone support is there for you 24/7 on 1800 011 046.