Despite work playing a significant role in mental health and wellbeing, many military personnel with mental illness are being discharged rather than rehabilitated back into their roles or other occupational settings.

To enhance return to work rates, particular attention should be directed towards early intervention for PTSD symptomatology. It is imperative that military personnel receive gold-standard PTSD treatment prior to being diverted on a medical discharge route, as many personnel can be returned to work safely.

Helping our frontline workers access greater support services is this week’s guest Dr Andrew Khoo, Consultant Psychiatrist and Director of Day Programs and Medical Director at Toowong Private Hospital.

Andrew is the Chair of the RANZCP Committee for the Military, Veterans and Emergency Services Personnel Mental Health Network. He is also member of the Department of Veteran’s Affairs Expert Advisory Group.

Andrew is a member of the ACSQHC Expert Advisory Group informing the Australian Commissioner's Review into military and veteran suicide. He sits on the Queensland Police Service Injury Management Advisory Group and has externally reviewed policy for the Australian Federal Police and the QPS.

This week, Andrew sits down with me to discuss how tailored PTSD treatments can benefit our frontline workers and assist their transition back into the workplace.