MOD launches mental health strategy

A programme to improve the mental health of those serving in the UK Armed Forces has been launched by the Ministry of Defence (MOD).

The Defence People Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2017-2022 isn’t limited to those serving on the front line and aims to introduce standardised mental health and wellbeing education and training for all those working in defence, as well as military families, veterans and MOD civil servants.

Research on resilience training will be carried out to ensure that individuals are as mentally fit as they can be to prevent depression and anxiety, while groups who are more likely to suffer from mental health issues, such as combat troops and supporting medical personnel, will be better monitored.

The plans will also improve access to clinical assessment, while the MOD will develop partnerships with key service charities to continue anti-stigma campaigning initiatives and share best practice.

Minister for defence people and veterans Tobias Ellwood launched the strategy at an international conference with counterparts from the United States, Australia, Canada and New Zealand.

He commented: “A fitter force is a more effective force and keeping our people healthy helps keep this country safe.

“This new strategy recognises the importance of mental health, alongside physical injuries and will improve the prevention, detection, and treatment of mental health issues which is vital to the wellbeing of our military.”