Dealing with mental health challenges and stress

Some service men and women and veterans are coping with depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress or any other psychological problems.

My life is improving every day. What was it that turned it around for me? It was SSAFA.

- Jason, Army Veteran

SSAFA is here to help. Our network of volunteer caseworkers and specialised services, provide practical support while you safely and happily recover.

SSAFA does not deliver medical, counselling or advocacy services, but we can help you get in contact with those who can while offering a friendly shoulder to lean on.

Remember that if you’re experiencing mental health problems then in the first instance you must contact your GP if you are ex-Forces, and the Defence Medical Service if you are serving.

You can also contact support via OP COURAGE.

 

SSAFA's services are only available to people who have received at least one day's pay from the Armed Forces (British Army, Royal Navy, Royal Air Force, Royal Marines, including Reserves), or are in the immediate family of someone who served.

Need help or support?

Thank you for trusting us with your data. For extra peace of mind about how we keep your data secure and how we manage your personal data, you can read more information in our Privacy Policy.

Need to talk?

Please fill in the form or call us to speak to one of our Forcesline advisors

0800 260 6767

We are open 09:00 - 17:30,
Monday to Friday.

Or talk to our Forcesline advisors online with our new live chat service.

Meet Stuart

Stuart wasn't diagnosed with PTSD until 16 years after leaving the Army.  His increasing bouts of aggression and depression caused a breakdown in his marriage, and he was forced to leave the family home.  In his darkest moments he was inspired to call SSAFA - thanks to a SSAFA teddy bear his son had pressed into his hands as he left.  The subsequent phone call and caseworker support helped Stuart turn his life around, and he credits SSAFA and his caseworker with saving his life.

 

Read more