New research reveals increase in PTSD among UK veterans
Combat Stress Warns of 'Dire Consequences' as Demand for Veteran Mental Health Support Surges
Combat Stress, the UK's leading charity for veterans' mental health, has issued a stark warning about the increasing demand for specialist support outpacing available services. This comes in light of new research revealing a significant rise in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) rates amongst UK veterans.
Research from the King’s Centre for Military Health Research, King’s College London, and commissioned by the Office for Veterans’ Affairs reveals the rate of probable post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), including Complex PTSD (C-PTSD), has increased amongst veterans to 11% (it was previously 7% in the last phase of research almost a decade ago). Amongst veterans deployed to Iraq or Afghanistan in combat roles, the rate jumps even higher to almost one in five (18%) of which three-quarters (13.9%) meet the criteria for C-PTSD. In comparison, the rate of PTSD amongst the general public is 4%.
CEO Chloe Mackay of Combat Stress, stated, “The findings of the study by the King’s Centre for Military Health Research, showing an increase in the rate of probable PTSD, including C-PTSD, confirm what we are seeing with an increase in new referrals to Combat Stress. We support the study’s recommendations for continued investment in veteran mental health services, as well as research to understand the best treatment and support for the condition.”
Combat Stress warns that without immediate action to address this funding shortfall, there could be "dire consequences" for veterans' mental health. The charity is calling for increased government support to meet the rising demand and ensure that no veteran is left without access to vital mental health services.
The need for sustainable funding and expanded mental health resources for veterans has never been more urgent. Combat Stress remains committed to supporting those who have served, but emphasises that a collaborative effort involving government, charities, and the wider community is essential to address this critical issue.
Veterans With Dogs' Ongoing Commitment
In light of these concerning findings, Veterans With Dogs remains steadfastly committed to supporting veterans by providing assistance dogs for mental health as a long-term adjunct to treatment. Our organisation recognises the complex nature of PTSD and other mental health challenges faced by veterans, and we believe that assistance dogs can play a crucial role in their ongoing care and recovery.
As the need for mental health support amongst veterans continues to grow, we are redoubling our efforts to train and place assistance dogs with those who need them most. These specially trained canine companions provide invaluable emotional support, help mitigate symptoms of PTSD and other mental health conditions, and can significantly improve the quality of life for veterans struggling with their mental health.
We at Veterans With Dogs understand that recovery is often a long-term process, and our assistance dogs are there to support veterans every step of the way. As we move forward, we remain committed to working alongside other veteran support organisations, healthcare providers, and policymakers to ensure that veterans receive the comprehensive, long-term care they need and deserve.