According to leading mental health organisations, around 1 in 4 of us will experience some form of mental health problem at least once during our lives. A small but significant number of Veterans leave the Armed Forces with psychological wounds. These can lead to depression, phobias, anxiety, relationship problems and, in some cases, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Those who are serving, or have served, in the Parachute Regiment are no exception and many soldiers, veterans and their families have suffered from mental health conditions.

The good news is that there is help available. If you are still serving in the Regiment and find yourself troubled by mental health issues you should report to your Medical Officer as soon as possible. They may refer you to the Department of Community Mental Health (DCMH) for treatment. The earlier that your problems are identified and treated, the less likely they will be to continue to impact on your life. It should be remembered that it takes a strong person to recognize that they have a problem and an even stronger one to seek help for it. Rest assured, your treatment will be confidential and you certainly won’t be the only person in your unit who has needed help, even if it feels like that. Don’t delay, report today!

If you are a Veteran of the Regiment, you can access help from the same sources as other ex-Service personnel and the public. Your GP will be able to refer you for treatment via the NHS.

The image on the right contains a link to the Big White Wall. Big White Wall is a forum where you can access help from the trained members of staff and also interact with many others who are going through the same feelings and problems as you. Big White Wall has received funding to cater for Armed Forces Veterans.

MIND is a leading national Mental Health charity.  Its aims are to provide advice and support to empower anyone experiencing a mental health problem. They campaign to improve services, raise awareness and promote understanding.  For more information on MIND and to visit their website please click on the link to visit the MIND website.