Easter isn’t easy for everyone – support is here if you need it
For many people, Easter is a time to slow down, connect with loved ones and take a break from the grind. But for some veterans and families of veterans, public holidays can bring up difficult memories, feelings of loss, or a sense of isolation.
If Easter feels harder than expected this year, you’re not alone – and you don’t have to manage it by yourself.
When holidays stir up more than expected
Time away from routine, anniversaries of service or loss, and spending time with others can sometimes trigger memories or emotions linked to military service. For some people, it might show up as feeling flat, on edge, or overwhelmed. For others, it may bring up memories of time away from home, deployments, or the challenges of transitioning out of service.
There’s no right or wrong way to feel. What matters is knowing that support is available if you or someone you care about is doing it tough.
Looking out for each other
Easter can be a good time to check in with yourself and the people around you. A simple message, phone call or shared moment can make a real difference, especially for someone who might be feeling disconnected.
You don’t need to have all the answers; you just need to let someone know you care and where they can get professional support.
Open Arms offices will be closed over Easter
Although our offices will be closed from 3 – 6 April and will re-open on Tuesday 7 April, free and confidential support will be available 24/7 throughout the Easter break.
Free, confidential support – 24/7
Open Arms provides free, confidential, military‑aware mental health and wellbeing support for current and former ADF members and their immediate families. Support is available day or night, including throughout the Easter period.
📞 Call Open Arms on 1800 011 046 – available 24/7
Prefer to stay anonymous?
If asking for help feels like a big step, Safe Zone offers anonymous, military‑aware mental health support. You don’t have to say who you are or where you served.
📞 Call Safe Zone on 1800 142 072
Stand shoulder to shoulder and be mindful
Open Arms also offers a range of supports that you can access in your own time, including:
Shoulder to Shoulder online forums, delivered by SANE Australia, where veterans and families can share experiences and learn from each other in a safe, moderated space 24/7.
These options are designed to be flexible and accessible, wherever you are in Australia.
This Easter, remember help is close by
Whether Easter is a time of joy, reflection, or mixed emotions, support is available today and every day. Reaching out – for yourself or someone else – can be a powerful first step.
If you or someone you care about needs support, Open Arms is here.
📞 1800 011 046