The NHS is rolling out expanded mental health support for veterans following a survey that found that more than half find it difficult to speak up about mental health issues.
Recognising the challenges veterans face in seeking help for mental health issues, the NHS has rolled out an expanded version of its Op COURAGE service, featuring boosted self-referral options and dedicated addiction support.
Dr Jonathan Leach OBE, NHS England Associate Medical Director for Armed Forces and Veterans Health, said: “The NHS Op COURAGE service is unique – our staff are not only highly trained clinical professionals, but they are also either ex-military or know the military culture first-hand.
“This sets them up to provide a non-judgemental service and build trust with those seeking help. Our research has found that veterans can often struggle to know when to ask for help.”
A growing need for accessible mental health support
Launched in 2017, Op COURAGE has already supported over 30,000 veterans, reservists, and service leavers with specialist care and treatment.
Recent data shows over 4,500 referrals between April and November 2023 alone, highlighting the critical need for accessible mental health services.
Minister of State for Veterans’ Affairs, Johnny Mercer, emphasised the importance of mental health support for veterans: “I am determined to make this the best country in the world to be a veteran but to do that, we need veterans and the public to be aware of what support is already available to them, including our dedicated mental health service Op COURAGE.
“I would strongly urge anyone who is struggling to reach out. Help is available through Op COURAGE in England, dedicated NHS services in Scotland and Wales, and the Veterans’ Support Office in Northern Ireland.”
Expanding Op COURAGE services
To better understand how to improve mental health support for veterans, the NHS launched a survey between April and May 2022 and received 3,095 responses.
With 60% of veterans surveyed admitting difficulty seeking help, the NHS realised the need to make reaching out easier and address specific concerns related to addiction.
The revamped Op COURAGE focuses on simplifying self-referral processes, recognising it as the preferred method for 44% of veterans seeking help.
Additionally, identifying the high prevalence of co-occurring physical and mental health issues (54% and 52%, respectively, amongst survey respondents), Op COURAGE now offers enhanced support for addiction recovery.
If you are a veteran, reservist, or service leaver struggling with mental health or addiction, reaching out for help is crucial. Op COURAGE offers a safe and supportive space to begin your journey towards healing.
