Helping veteran families navigate suicide distress and loss

When someone you love is struggling with suicidal thoughts or has been lost to suicide, the impact is felt by everyone close to them. It can be hard to know what to do, how to help, or even where to begin. That’s where Stronger We Stand comes in.

A free, online support program developed by Grand Pacific Health in partnership with Open Arms - Veterans & Families Counselling, Stronger We Stand is designed to empower veteran families and carers with the tools, knowledge, and community support they need. Whether you’re walking beside someone in crisis or living with the grief of suicide loss, you don’t have to do it alone.

This program is now available to partners, parents, siblings and the loved ones of current or former serving veterans. It provides a safe, understanding space to ask questions, build practical skills and connect with others who understand.

Led by compassionate facilitators with both clinical expertise and lived experience -including peer workers who have walked the same road themselves - the sessions are built around empathy, kindness and a shared understanding.

Participants can choose from:

• Foundational series: Three 90-minute sessions focused on supporting someone through suicidal distress or bereavement.
• Parent-focused workshops: A dedicated three-hour session designed for parents navigating how to support their children.
• One-off sessions: Standalone workshops on specific topics such as stigma, post-traumatic stress disorder and advocacy.

Stronger We Stand supports the loved ones of veterans by walking alongside them, helping them find their footing, and offering guidance that meets them where they are to help them move forward.

No matter the circumstances, support is available. Loved ones of veterans are not alone, their wellbeing matters, and healing is possible.

To learn more or register for an upcoming session, visit gphlinks.org/sws, email [email protected], or call 1800 929 101.