By Olivia Walford, Administrator at The Eaves
A new Annual Mental Fitness Brief (AMFB) programme has been launched across the UK Armed Forces* on World Mental Health Day 2021. The mandatory training will ensure all personnel are equipped to support both their physical and mental health, and follows a commitment made by the Ministry of Defence on World Mental Health Day in 2020.
Why is mental health in the military important?
Many people associate jobs in the military with incredible physical fitness, but having good mental health is equally as important. 1 in 8 UK Armed Forces personnel was seen by military healthcare services for a mental health-related reason in 2020**. With the launch of the AMFB programme, more personnel may have the tools they need to recognise when to seek help.
UK Defence People and Veterans Minister Leo Docherty said: “I am proud we have taken yet another step to enhance our welfare provision for personnel. The Annual Mental Fitness Brief is the latest example of Defence’s commitment to ensuring our people are at the top of their game, both mentally and physically***.”
What support is available for personnel?
Most serving personnel and veterans do not experience mental health issues however, the exceptional circumstances they face during service can put them at an increased risk. While in service, military personnel can seek support from medical officers. The NHS offers the Veterans and Reserves Mental Health Programme (VRMHP) in conjunction with the Ministry of Defence for veterans. There are also several charities that support veterans’ mental health, including Combat Stress.
Practitioners at The Eaves offer talking therapy for a variety of mental health issues that veterans may face, including depression, PTSD and substance abuse. Our professionals see individuals of all ages, families, couples and young people 12 hours a day, Monday to Saturday between 9am and 9pm. We offer in-person sessions in Guildford, Farnham and Godalming, Surrey as well as online sessions UK-wide. Please call 01483 917000 to speak to a member of the referrals team. You can also send us an enquiry via our website. Click here to find out more.
References
***https://www.army-technology.com/news/uk-mod-new-annual-mental-fitness-brief/