Mental health concerns for veterans due to Afghanistan turmoil

The Veterans Affairs Department has reached out to more than 200,000 ex-servicemen and women offering support in the wake of the Taliban's resurgence in Afghanistan. Key points: 287,000 ex-servicemen and women received a text message from the Department of Veterans Affairs offering support The Veterans Affairs Minister says the department had learnt from its mistakes following the Vietnam War An Afghanistan veteran says the events over the past week, coupled with being in lockdown, have created significant mental health concerns for many Text messages have been sent to veterans amid concerns news of the takeover could have an impact on their mental health. "The feedback we have received is it is not just the Afghanistan vets who may be feeling distressed at this time," Minister for Veterans Affairs and Defence Personnel Andrew Gee said. 'It hasn't been in vain' Minister for Veterans Affairs Andrew Gee says Australia's personnel can be proud of their service. 'Some bad memories' Defence support services: The Defence all-hours Support Line is a confidential telephone and online service for ADF members and their families 1800 628 036 Open Arms provides 24-hour free and confidential counselling and support for current and former ADF members and their families 1800 011 046 Soldier On is a national support services provider for Defence personnel, contemporary veterans, and their families.