Resilience and Wellbeing Sessions - Veterans and First Responders

Practical strategies, real conversations — delivered by registered mental health professionals.

Oseca is a locally-based, not-for-profit mental health organisation in the South West of WA. In partnership with Hudson Road Family Centre, we're running a series of group sessions for current and former Veterans and First Responders in the Bunbury region. Each session provides practical tools, information, and space for discussion — led by mental health clinicians who understand the unique challenges faced by those who’ve served. Whether you're navigating stress, adjusting to life after service, or just want to maintain your wellbeing — you’re welcome here.

Session 1: Mental Health on the Front Line – Common Challenges & First Steps

22 July | 10:00am – 12:00pm
This opening session provides an overview of common mental health concerns experienced by people in Defence and First Responder roles — including stress, anxiety, low mood, and post-traumatic stress. We’ll look at how these issues often show up in this community, outline what support is available, and explore some early tools for self-care and resilience.

Session 2: Understanding PTSD – What It Is, and What Helps

19 August | 10:00am – 12:00pm
PTSD is more than a label — it's a natural response to prolonged or extreme stress. In this session, we’ll unpack what’s happening in the brain and body during trauma, explain the key symptoms in plain language, and explore practical ways to support recovery and healing.

Session 3: Sleep as Recovery – Getting the Rest You Need

16 September | 10:00am – 12:00pm
Sleep is one of the most powerful tools for recovery, but it’s often disrupted in high-stress jobs. This session explores how quality sleep supports mental and physical wellbeing, and offers straightforward, realistic tips to improve sleep patterns and get the rest your brain needs to reset.

Session 4: Staying Steady in Tough Times – Resilience Under Pressure

21 October | 10:00am – 12:00pm
Veterans and First Responders are no strangers to crisis. This session introduces a model for resilience that helps us recognise when we’re hitting our limits — and what we can do to recharge before burnout sets in. You’ll walk away with tools for managing high-stress periods and looking after yourself for the long haul.

Session 5: Building a Positive Culture – Looking Out for Each Other

18 November | 10:00am – 12:00pm
The culture around mental health is changing — and that’s a good thing. This final session explores how we can continue to break down stigma, create mentally healthy teams and communities, and lead by example. It starts with looking after ourselves, and extends to being there for our mates.