armed forces and mental health
Military personnel face unique experiences and challenges that can impact them physically and mentally. These demands often lead to significant stress and emotional strain. That’s why mental wellbeing is such a crucial aspect of overall health for armed forces members and veterans.
In Scotland, 1 in 10 veterans have a long-term mental health problem, such as depression, anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The challenges of military life, including deployment, time away from loved ones and exposure to traumatic events, can have a lasting impact on mental health both during and after service.
Veterans often face additional challenges as they transition from a military environment to civilian life. The shift can be jarring, leading to feelings of isolation and difficulty adjusting to everyday life. Mental health support for both current and former armed forces members is crucial to help them navigate these challenges and maintain their wellbeing.
myths about armed forces and mental health
All veterans have PTSD
Not all veterans experience PTSD. While military service can increase the risk due to greater exposure to potentially traumatic events, most veterans do not develop the condition. Around 9.4% of UK service personnel have PTSD, rising to 10.5% in veterans.
mental health issues only begin after leaving service
Mental health challenges can arise at any stage of military life. More than 1 in 5 serving personnel experience a common mental health condition, showing that mental health issues are not limited to life after service.
talking about mental health will harm my career
Seeking help for your mental health is a responsible action. Many armed forces organisations have measures in place to support their members that won’t impact their careers.
mental health in military personnel
Common mental health difficulties that military personnel face are:
Anxiety and depression: Anxiety may present as persistent worry, tension or panic, while depression can include prolonged low mood, loss of interest in activities, fatigue and feelings of hopelessness. They are the most common mental health problems faced by military personnel.
Sleep disturbances: Disordered sleep is widespread and may include insomnia, nightmares or disrupted sleep cycles – often linked to trauma.
Substance use: 1 in 10 veterans turn to alcohol or drugs to cope with stress or trauma.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): PTSD can develop after exposure to traumatic events. It may manifest through flashbacks or sensory disturbances, avoidance, emotional numbing, hyperarousal and difficulty concentrating or feeling safe.
Moral injury: Moral injury refers to the psychological, emotional or spiritual distress that can result from being involved with actions that go against someone’s own moral beliefs. Unlike PTSD, it is not a formal diagnosis but is strongly associated with poor mental health, due to feelings of guilt, shame or disgust about the situation they were involved in.
Examples of situations that could cause moral injury
- Witnessing or being involved in the mistreatment of civilians or prisoners and not able to stop it happening
- Failing to prevent harm to comrades or civilians
- Feeling betrayed by leadership or comrades.
barriers to accessing mental health support
Stigma
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- Self-stigma: Many veterans internalise the stigmatising belief that struggling with mental health reflects personal weakness. This can lead to shame, denial or a reluctance to seek help.
- Social stigma: Concerns about being judged by peers, family or society can discourage help-seeking.
Military culture and fear of consequences
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- Tough mentality: Emotional resilience is a core military value. As a result, many veterans feel that acknowledging psychological distress is incompatible with the expectations of their role.
- Impact on career and reputation: Many veterans worry that disclosing a mental health problem will affect career opportunities or relationships.
Lack of awareness and understanding
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- Not recognising symptoms: PTSD and complex PTSD (C-PTSD) can manifest in complex and sometimes subtle ways. Veterans may not realise their experiences (e.g., hypervigilance, irritability, emotional numbness) are symptoms of a treatable condition.
- Uncertainty about services: After leaving the military, many veterans are unaware of available support or how to access it – particularly services tailored specifically to their needs.
gender and ethnic diversity in the armed forces community
It’s important to recognise the veteran community as highly diverse. Understanding the varied backgrounds, experiences and needs within the veteran community is essential to providing support. Out of the armed forces in the UK:
- 11.7% are women
- 11.2% identify as having an ethnic background other than white.
I work in the armed forces. How can I help my mental health?
While the physical and mental demands of being in the armed forces can be challenging, it’s essential to take proactive steps to support your mental health. Here are some tips that may help:
Recognise the signs
Be aware of the common symptoms of mental health issues, such as persistent sadness, anxiety, suicidal thoughts and changes in sleep or appetite. Early recognition and intervention are key.
Seek professional help
Do not delay reaching out for help until you reach a crisis moment. There are many organisations that have confidential counselling services available, tailored to those who are in the military. You can find support options at the bottom of this page.
Build a support network
Stay connected with family, friends or colleagues. Social support can provide emotional comfort and practical help.
Practice self-care
Engage in activities that promote relaxation and wellbeing, such as exercise, mindfulness or hobbies.
I’m a veteran. How can I support myself?
Transitioning to civilian life after serving in the armed forces can be challenging. Veterans may experience a range of emotions and difficulties during this period. Here are ways to support your mental health as a veteran:
Stay connected: Maintain relationships with fellow veterans who can understand your experiences and relate to what you have experienced. If you don’t know other veterans, consider joining a peer support group.
Plan your transition: If you are transitioning to civilian life, plan ahead. Seek career counselling and transition assistance programmes to help you adjust.
Monitor your health: Keep regular appointments with healthcare providers and be proactive about addressing any health concerns, including mental health.
Find purpose: Engage in meaningful activities, whether it’s a new job, volunteering work or a hobby. Having a sense of purpose can improve mental wellbeing.
veterans community café
Our Veterans Community Café in Edinburgh was set up to help veterans isolated due to mental health issues, to address loneliness through contact with other veterans. The café is held every Wednesday evening (6 pm to 9 pm) and every Friday morning from (10 am to 12pm) at Change Mental Health’s Stafford Centre where veterans can benefit from peer support.
“The veterans café is a valuable place and a sanctuary for us. We have a meal and a chat about our week, how we are feeling and it is a very welcoming place for us to chill out. It breaks up the week for us and gives us a chance to catch up with people. Having the cafe is one of the things we need to help with our recovery.”
– Chris reflects on the positive impact the Veterans Community Café has had on his mental health and recovery.
How do I support others?
Supporting someone in the armed forces or a veteran struggling with mental health issues can be immensely valuable. Here are some ways you can offer your support:
Listen without judgement: Offer a non-judgmental ear to those who may be struggling. Sometimes, just being there to listen can make a big difference.
Encourage professional help: Gently encourage them to seek professional support if they are reluctant to do so. Offer to help them find resources or accompany them to appointments.
Be patient and understanding: Recovery from mental health issues can take time. Be patient and continue to offer your support.
Peer support: Consider joining a peer support group. Sharing experiences with fellow military personnel who understand your challenges can provide significant emotional support and practical advice.
Look for warning signs: Be aware of warning signs, such as withdrawal, dissociation, changes in mood or behaviour and talk of self-harm. If you notice these, encourage them to seek immediate help and offer your assistance in doing so.
support
We offer two services specifically for veterans in Scotland:
- Veterans Community Cafe in Edinburgh: run by veterans for veterans, delivering peer support every Wednesday evening.
- Veterans Carer Support in Angus: supporting carers of veterans through one-to-one support and peer support groups.
Our National Advice and Support Service can help you and people you care for with mental health concerns and money worries.
We can link and signpost you to relevant local and national support, including our own Change Mental Health services, as well supporting with debt, grants and benefits.
The service is open Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm (closed for lunch between 12.30pm to 1.30pm). Contact 0808 8010 515, email advice@changemh.org or fill in the form on the service webpage.
For full details about the service, visit the National Advice and Support Service webpage.
Other support
Veterans First Point Scotland is a service designed by veterans to support veterans. They provide a range of support services.
Combat Stress provides mental health services to veterans across the UK. They offer a 24-hour Helpline at 0800 138 1619.
SSAFA (Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Families Association) provides lifelong support to serving men and women and veterans from the British Armed Forces and their families. You can call them at 0800 260 6780.
