Defence Select Committee publishes report on military mental health

The public perception that most servicemen and women are damaged by their service is wrong, according to a report by the House of Commons Defence Select Committee published today.

The report, which looks at the extent of mental illness among Armed Forces personnel, found that most veterans leave the military with no mental health problems. The Committee also stated that too much attention may be being placed on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) when conditions such as depression are much more common.

Carol Smith, Director Client Services at Combat Stress, said:

“Most veterans transition successfully from the military to civilian life but a small number are affected by trauma-related mental health problems such as anxiety, depression or PTSD.

“Veterans with PTSD can struggle to leave behind the trauma they’ve experienced, reliving it so often that they find it hard to function. PTSD has an enormous ripple effect, often tearing families apart, destroying relationships and devastating lives.

“We’re working closely with the MOD, NHS and other military charities to overcome the stigma of mental health and create a climate where veterans feel able to talk.  

“In the last decade, we’ve seen a 97% increase in the number of veterans seeking help from Combat Stress, particularly from those who served in Afghanistan and Iraq. More than 2,000 veterans now come to us each year.

“As a country, we must continue investing in mental health services so veterans can receive the effective treatment they deserve and can return to leading a fulfilling life.”

To read the report click here.