Examining Sex-Based Delays in Utilizing Advocacy Support Services Among Australian Military Veterans: Implications for Health Care Access and Suicide Prevention

Andrew Prevett (), Monica Short, Maxwell Morrissey and Ben Wadham
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Andrew Prevett: College of Education, Psychology and Social Work, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA 5042, Australia
Monica Short: School of Social Work and Arts, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia
Maxwell Morrissey: School of Social Work and Arts, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia
Ben Wadham: College of Education, Psychology and Social Work, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA 5042, Australia

IJERPH, 2024, vol. 21, issue 11, 1-12

Abstract: This study explores the impact of sex on delays experienced by Australian military veterans in accessing advocacy support services within the veterans’ non-profit sector. A detailed analysis of intake records from 150 injured veterans who entered the Returned and Services League of Australia’s advocacy program in 2021 reveals significant disparities between male and female veterans in seeking assistance. On average, male veterans delay accessing support by 20.4 years post-service, compared to 9.1 years for female veterans. These prolonged delays hinder veterans’ ability to secure financial and medical support from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, limiting timely access to essential healthcare services. As a result, delays can exacerbate physical and psychological symptoms, impede recovery, and increase the risk of suicide. The findings provide valuable insights for international healthcare professionals on the influence of military culture and traditional masculine norms in shaping veterans’ help-seeking behaviors. By understanding these dynamics, healthcare practitioners can develop targeted, sex-sensitive interventions that address specific barriers faced by male and female veterans. Ensuring timely access to advocacy support is crucial for improving health outcomes and reducing suicide risk in this vulnerable population.

Keywords: military veteran; advocacy; help-seeking behavior; suicide; stigma; military culture (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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