I still mark time in subtle ways
waiting for commands that never come
all that falls out is my soul
onto an empty parade ground

Veteran Alt2Su
Black background with interconnected white lines forming a network or web-like pattern.

Alt2Su for veterans in Australia is an alternative to Emergency Department and traditional clinical mental health care settings for veterans experiencing suicidal thoughts, ideations, and distress. Veterans, including those currently serving, are able to engage in Alt2Su groups on a one off, ongoing, or as needed basis.

Alternatives to Suicide peer support groups are for anyone with personal experiences of suicidal thoughts or actions to talk about suicidal experiences and other forms of emotional distress without fear of being put through a crisis management system.

The Alternatives to Suicide approach is about openly exploring the meaning behind thoughts and feelings of suicide, as well as what might be worth living for.

In Alt2Su groups we find strength in coming together to support one another in our times of greatest distress. Our collective wisdom and individual stories have taught us that making space for this topic can be powerful and healing, whether in a peer support setting or anywhere else these conversations come up.

Veteran Alt2Su was established in recognition that suicidal experiences emerging from the many dimensions of military service are unique, as well as the recognition that there are very few places where veterans can speak openly about their suicidal experiences without the fear of a “mandatory report” being made or other crisis focussed systemic responses.

The group is facilitated by two ex-serving people who have a lived experience of suicidal distress and suicidal crisis as well as having worked in public community mental health and veterans mental health and suicide prevention.