Shoulder to Shoulder 

Delivered by SANE Australia, Shoulder to Shoulder offers two forums—one for veterans, and one for families and carers.

These forums provide anonymous, peer-led spaces where people can connect, share experiences and feel understood by others who ‘get it’. Co-designed with the veteran community and trauma experts, the forums are moderated by mental health professionals, accessible 24/7 on any device.

The Shoulder to Shoulder forums help bridge the gap between support systems a offering connection, resources and pathways to additional support when needed. The service model reflects a strong commitment to compassion, safety and lived‑experience‑informed design. 

Mindfulness‑Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)

Free online program

The Mindfulness‑Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) program is a free, evidence‑based online program designed to support the mental health and wellbeing of veterans, their families and carers.

Delivered over eight weeks, the  program helps participants build practical mindfulness skills to manage stress, navigate difficult emotions and support long‑term wellbeing . MBSR is based on a therapeutic model supported by more than 40 years of research and can complement other mental health treatments.  

Who can take part

• Current and former serving ADF members
• Veterans
• Families and carers
• You do not need to be an Open Arms client to participate.

How the program works

The online MBSR program includes:

• an online information session before the course begins
• weekly 2.5‑hour online group sessions over eight weeks, offered at various times including evenings and weekends
• individual check‑in calls with the teacher before, during and after the course
• a half‑day guided mindfulness practice session
• facilitated referrals to additional counselling or clinical support if required

Why choose MBSR

Participants from the pilot program reported:

• improved self‑awareness
• better coping and emotional regulation
• stronger capacity to manage mental and physical health
• improved personal relationships.  

Because the program is delivered online, it can be accessed from anywhere in Australia and may be particularly helpful for people in regional or remote areas, or those who prefer not to attend face‑to‑face groups.

Register your interest

The MBSR program is delivered nationally and new courses run regularly.

Register your interest in the Mindfulness‑Based Stress Reduction program