Retired special forces commander Heston Russell says the turbulent Christmas and New Year’s period left a lot of veterans feeling destabilised and isolated from their families.

Mr Russell said that part of the year is often hard for veterans who are struggling with their purpose and identity, but the Brereton report findings and border closures made it more difficult.

“The common narrative across the veteran community from those who really do suffer from mental health decline resulting in ideation and inaction, really comes from that loss of purpose and loss of identity,” he told Sky News.

“It’s really, really destabilised a lot of people who were really looking forward to this being that time that everything was looking good.”

Anyone who may be feeling distressed can contact the following organisations for support.

SANE Helpline 1800 18 72 63

Lifeline 131 114

Beyond blue 1300 22 4636