The Role of Chaplaincy in Providing Support for Defence members Experiencing Suicidality

This article addresses the role that chaplains can have with regard to providing support for Defence members experiencing suicidality with a focus upon the Australian military context. This is particularly important given the recent report of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide. Drawing upon relevant research and theoretical frameworks from the fields of psychology, public health, spirituality and pastoral care, this article presents an understanding of the importance of the bio-psycho-social-spiritual support which can be provided for Defence members experiencing distressing suicide related behaviours.