Fed: Billson says macho culture may stop soldiers seeking help

AAP General News (Australia)
04-30-2007
Fed: Billson says macho culture may stop soldiers seeking help

Veterans Affairs Minister BRUCE BILLSON has defended the government's support services
for returning soldiers.

He's told ABC radio a macho defence culture and a stigma about seeking help could be
preventing some personnel from getting the counselling they need.

But Mr BILLSON's urged serving and former soldiers to take full advantage of the services
on offer for combat stress.

His comments follow the Australian Medical Association's call for more to be done to
help soldiers deal with the emotional fallout from being in war zones.

Two soldiers have reportedly killed themselves after returning from the Middle East
.. while dozens more have been medically discharged due to mental illness.

AAP RTV mb/wf/jmt

KEYWORD: STRESS BILLSON (CANBERRA)

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