COMMENTARY

MOST veterans transition successfully from military to civilian life but a small number are affected by mental health problems including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). They can struggle to leave behind the trauma they’ve experienced, reliving it so often that they find it hard to function in civilian life. PTSD has an enormous ripple effect, tearing families apart, destroying relationships and devastating lives.

Veterans with serious mental health conditions, especially if related to military operations and combat, need specialist care from services with expertise in treating PTSD. Every life is precious and at Combat Stress we do all we can to support former servicemen and women with mental health problems. We provide a range of free services at our treatment centres and through regional community teams including short-stay clinical treatment, a specialist PTSD Intensive Treatment Programme, occupational therapy, a Peer Support Service and a free 24-hour Helpline 0800 138 1619. We also provide a helpline to service personnel and their families on 0800 323 4444. Find out more at combatstress.org.uk. Veterans can also seek support through Veterans’ Gateway which puts them and their families in touch with organisations best placed to help them. Call 0808 802 1212 or visit veteransgateway.org.uk

‘Every life is precious and we do all we can’