Victoria Cross winner Willy Apita features a short film to launch a new mental health policy initiative for Kiwi veterans.
The New Zealand Defense Forces and the Department of Veterans Affairs have released a 60-page policy framework document that is the culmination of a year-long in-depth study of the mental health and welfare needs of New Zealand veterans.
This framework is behind the government’s 2018 HeAra Oranga report on mental health and addiction, identifying veterans as vulnerable groups.
In 2007, Apiata received the highest Gallantry Award at the Victoria Cross of the New Zealand Army. He attended the roundtable in 2021 and helped devise a new policy framework.
A 50-year-old Afghan veterinarian said, ” Go homeDirector Steve Baker.
In it, Apiata exhibits his portrait in full military uniform, which he says represents the hidden trauma of his 23 years of service.
“This portrait of myself is a portrait that no one has ever seen. When I see it, I see a broken man,” says Apiata.
“We are just trying to do our best to get home. That’s it. But we need help. I serve my country, as all my brothers and sisters do. , Served the country in honor, and left many injuries and illnesses that were not from the beginning. “
Veterans Director Bernadine MacKenzie said at a roundtable that the need for NZDF system improvements, including raising awareness of returning veterans’ mental health challenges, effective prevention and enhanced support, was highlighted. ..
“I realized there were problems and problems here. We examined the evidence and identified what New Zealand could do to improve the mental health and well-being of veterans, their families, and Whānau. I wanted to. “
Afghan veteran Maacah McKinney also appeared in the launch video, talking about his own experience with the lack of support for returning from the war zone.
“Honestly, there was no support when I left the army,” McKinney said.
“The care and support I received came from my brother I worked with in the army. I was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder and depression.”
Veteran Chantel Rock also proves lack of support when returning from service to New Zealand.
“It was an honor and a sacrifice I made for others, but I also felt lonely. Unless I tried for myself, there was no support from anyone.”
Sir Bomb Gillies will also appear in the video. At the age of 97, he was the last member of the Maori battalion, a World War II infantry battalion, and became a knight in 2021.
“We can’t continue this. We have to start, not just take care of our family. We have to start taking care of those who have served,” he said.
Veterans Minister Meka Whaitiri welcomed new resources-Te Aratakimōte Hauora Ngākaumōngā Mōrehua Tūmeōrātou Whānau, Veterans, Family, and Whānau Mental Health and Welfare Policy Framework.
“I was impressed with the efforts and dedication of many in the sector who made this framework a reality,” she said.
“What they have created is for veterans’ needs, the best ways to improve their mental health and well-being, and for families and Whānau to support them and help them bear their burdens. A great guide to. “
Whoitiri’s support for the framework is shared by Health Minister Andrew Little and Defense Minister Peeni Henare.
Veterans Willie Apiata (VC), Vic Tim, Ben Peckham, Tina Grant, Andy Peters, and Army Rear Admiral John Boswell were all part of the roundtable that helped create the policy document.