Australia: The Police Association Victoria’s concept for a mental health and wellbeing app for members became a reality today. Police are exposed to extreme situations of violence and human trauma in the course of their day to day work. 

The app is one tool to help manage the level of stress and mental health issues experienced by members. These can range from managing a simple stress reaction at an incident to anxiety, depression, PTSD and suicide.

The new app “equipt” was official launched today with Police Minister Lisa Neville, Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton and Association President John Laird. The app is available to all current and former members, employees and their families.

At the launch, it was emphasised the app was developed by police, for police, with leading health professionals. Victoria Police, Government and the Association worked together on the joint imitative.

A great advantage of the app is the ability to be instantly available to members. Police can leave a critical incident and get guidance immediately with breathing exercises and information at their finger tips.

“equipt” is designed to help strengthen physical, emotional and social wellbeing and put users in touch with help and support if needed.

According to the Police Association’s website, equipt helps:

• Develop healthy and sustainable lifestyle practices that enhance resilience
• Manage stressful situations, including distressing moods and thoughts
• Measure and track your wellbeing over time
• Plan for and take action to be well
• Get support when you need

The app can be downloaded here. 

If you need to talk to someone now, contact Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636, Lifeline 13 11 14 or call 000 if life is endangered.