The new helpline – 0800 323 4444 – was launched on Sunday and will be run by the veterans’ mental health charity Combat Stress.
The MOD will provide additional funds for the charity, as well as work together to develop “information sharing processes” to help support personnel and their families.
£22 million for Armed Forces mental healthIn addition, the Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson, has also agreed to spend an extra £2 million a year for the next decade to improve mental health services in the Armed Forces, on top of the £20 million a year already committed.
“Mental illness caused by life on the battlefield can have a devastating impact on our brave heroes and their families,” said Mr Williamson.
“It is our moral and professional duty to ensure that we do all we can for our world-class troops.
“I will personally be working with all the service chiefs to make sure there isn’t a single person in the forces who doesn’t know where to turn in times of trouble,” added Mr Williamson.
The MOD currently has a network of 20 mental health centres, comprising of 11 hubs and a further nine teams.
Regular visiting clinics are also held at other military centres across the country.
Last year, the Whitehall department also launched its Defence People Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy, focussing on preventative measures to help military personnel.
“A significant minority of servicemen and women develop mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder,” said the chief executive of Combat Stress, Sue Freeth.
“We know they can delay seeking treatment while in the Armed Forces, with some preferring to come forward for help after they have left the military.
Left untreated, mental health problems can become more complex and have a devastating impact on those with the condition, as well as their loved ones. It’s vital that people seek help as soon as they notice a change in their mental health,” she added.
