You are not alone - mental health support available for veterans

Help is available for armed forces veterans who may be struggling with some of the news and images currently coming out of Afghanistan.

Dorset HealthCare, which provides mental health services across Dorset, is signposting support for anyone dealing with their traumatic memories of serving in overseas operations

Expert help is available from Op COURAGE: The Veterans Mental Health and Wellbeing Service, which brings together specialist NHS mental health services to support veterans and their families across the country.

People due to leave the armed forces, who have just left or who finished serving years ago can all access help. They will speak to people who understand military life, are either from the armed forces community or are highly experienced in working with serving personnel, reservists, veterans and their families, and who will ensure the right type of specialist care, support and treatment is provided.

Dorset HealthCare also provides more general help to veterans through its Armed Forces Community Health and Wellbeing Team.

The team can assess a person’s needs and, if appropriate, liaise with local organisations to assist with issues such as health, welfare, housing and employment.

Andy Gritt, Clinical and Operations Manager for the Veterans’ High Intensity Service South West, said:

“It’s vitally important that ex-armed forces personnel are being well supported at all times, but especially at the moment when current events are having an impact.

“If you or someone you know is struggling with their mental health, expert help is available from Op COURAGE. You can contact the service directly or ask your GP, a charity or someone else – such as a family member or friend – to do this on your behalf.

“Our Community Health and Wellbeing Team is here for you too, every step of the way. You are not alone – if you need help, please reach out for it.”

For more information about Op Courage, visit the NHS website at www.nhs.uk/opcourage.

For details of the wider support available from Dorset HealthCare’s Armed Forces Community Health and Wellbeing Team, visit our webpage.