Veterans

Mental health problems are common and can affect anyone, including those who are serving or who have served in the armed forces.

Veterans may experience common mental health problems such as Anxiety, Depression and PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). These problems may be caused by their time in the armed forces and symptoms can affect them at any point in their life after leaving the armed services.

Veterans may find it more difficult to seek help because of their armed forces background (i.e. thinking it is a sign of weakness or NHS Professionals will be unable to understand them or their service history). Our service will work with you to try to overcome these barriers and can support you in accessing the most appropriate treatment for your difficulties.

Veterans may be able to access priority treatment if their problems are linked to their time in the armed services (e.g. combat related trauma). We deliver evidence-based talking therapies to help individuals overcome their difficulties and improve their wellbeing.

Op COURAGE: The Veterans Mental Health and Wellbeing service

Op COURAGE provide specialist care and support for those due to leave the armed forces, reservists and those who’ve already left. It has been developed by veterans, for veterans and is available across England.

Veterans Gateway

The Veterans’ Gateway service is the first point of contact for all Tri-Service veterans, and their families. Its expert content covers welfare areas: housing, employment, finances, living independently, mental wellbeing, families and communities, and physical health.

Combat Stress

Combat Stress provides a range of community, outpatient and residential mental health services to veterans with complex mental health problems. They provide a helpline and services in-person, and via phone and online.

Help for Heroes

Help for Heroes help veterans, their relatives, serving personnel, and people who worked alongside the UK military.  They help people with their physical and mental health needs, and a range of welfare issues.  Their support gives people the skills, confidence and knowledge to make a success of life in the civilian world.  Help for Heroes have a mental health therapy service called Hidden Wounds for veterans, their families and those who have worked alongside the UK Armed Forces.

SSAFA – The Armed Forces Charity

SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity is a trusted source of support for serving personnel, veterans and their families in their time of need.

Forcesline

Forcesline is a free and confidential telephone helpline and email service that provides support for serving (regulars and reserves), ex-Forces and for their families.  A live chat function is also available on their web page.