New Partnership Investigates Science-Backed Sport Recovery for Veterans
A 2022 study ‘Is exercise/physical activity effective at reducing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder in adults‘ shows the positive impact of exercise on veterans’ mental health, identifying that veterans with PTSD who participated in regular aerobic exercise experienced a significant reduction in PTSD symptoms, including hyperarousal, intrusive thoughts, and avoidance behaviors. The study concluded that exercise could be a valuable adjunctive therapy for PTSD, showcasing the benefits of veterans and their families getting involved in sports.
The recent findings of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide emphasised the importance of innovative, evidence-based approaches to improve veterans’ mental health and wellbeing. Veterans and their families need tailored approaches to ensure they are getting the most effective support to aid in their recovery, rehabilitation and reintegration into society, which includes in the sport and exercise space.
To support these findings, Invictus Australia and Exercise & Sport Science Australia (ESSA) announce a strategic partnership, aimed at enhancing the physical and mental wellbeing of veterans through the integration of exercise and sports science into veteran support services. ESSA and Invictus Australia are working together to address the need for innovative services, that offer veterans comprehensive pathways to recovery and long-term health and wellbeing.
As part of this collaboration, ESSA will leverage its expertise and member base to develop exercise physiology initiatives that specifically address the unique needs of veterans and create enhanced pathways for the defence community to access sport and exercise science professionals. These initiatives will incorporate evidence-based exercise and sport science methodologies to promote both mental and physical health among veterans. ESSA’s vision is that all Australians, including veterans, use exercise and sports science to enhance their health and performance. Through this partnership with Invictus Australia, ESSA aims to make this vision a reality by developing innovative programs that empower veterans to lead healthier, more active lives.
“ESSA is delighted to partner with Invictus Australia and leverage the power of sport and physical activity to improve the health and wellbeing of veterans. ESSA professionals support physical and mental health through the prescription and delivery of physical activity, with sport the perfect platform to get active, build community and move forward in recovery after service. We are committed to improving the quality of life of veterans and their families and partnering with Invictus Australia means we can create more opportunities to share the benefits of exercise and sports science.”
Invictus Australia CEO, Michael Hartung, echoed the importance of this partnership, stating, “Our mission is to support veterans and their families by connecting them through the healing power of sport. This partnership with ESSA will allow us to expand our offerings and provide veterans with access to cutting-edge exercise and sport science programs that can significantly enhance their recovery, resilience, and overall quality of life.”
Media Contact:
Nina Willoughby, GoodPR, 0427 400 961
E: nina@goodpr.com.au
About Invictus Australia
Invictus Australia is a leading nonprofit organisation dedicated to strengthening the health & wellbeing of veterans and their and their families through the power of sport. We support and encourage former and current serving members of the Defence community and their families as they connect and engage with their communities through sport, at a grassroots level or internationally, to assist with recovery, rehabilitation, and reintegration, or to proactively manage wellbeing. For more information, visit www.invictusaustralia.org.
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Looking to get involved in sport in your region? Connect with our staff through your regions Facebook group or email support@invictusaustralia.org
