Mental Health
Our mental health and our physical health are often related. All of us will experience challenges at some point in our lives that affect our emotional, social and psychological well-being. As Divers, we sometimes also have additional stresses and burdens that our career choice
comes with, these difficulties may be temporary or part of a longer-term mental health condition.
It’s is important to recognise that It’s OK to not be OK and that Help is available!
It’s also important for our friends and families to recognise the effects and signs of these conditions if they occur and what to do.
Whilst the RNCDA have neither the resources or expertise to help members (and non members) directly, we do have the ability and contacts to act as either a first contact point or to signpost more specific help
from specialist organisations (some of which are listed below).
It’s OK not to be OK!
The ex-Services Mental Welfare Society, Combat Stress, is the only Services charity specialising in helping those of all ranks from the Armed Forces and the Merchant Navy suffering from psychological disability as a result of their Service. You can visit their website here.
THE HELPLINE IS AVAILABLE
24 HOURS A DAY, 365 DAYS A YEAR.
Veterans and their families can call
Serving personnel and their families can call 0800 323 4444.
Hidden Wounds supports thousands of men and women and their families from the Armed Forces.
The Help for Heroes Hidden Wounds service can support you if you are Ex-Service Personnel, or a family
member, who is living with anxiety, depression, anger or wishing to change your drinking habits.
We know many Veterans struggling with their mental health have never accessed support before. If you
are the loved one of a Veteran who hasn’t reached out, particularly if you are worried about the impact of
your Veteran’s mental health on your own wellbeing, we’re here to offer free and confidential advice.
Support is delivered by phone, Skype or face to face.
Big White Wall is an online early intervention service for people in psychological distress. Big White Wall combines social networking principles with a choice of clinically informed interventions to improve mental wellbeing. It can be accessed 24/7 and has staff (Wall Guides) who ensure the full engagement, safety and anonymity of all members.
Big White Wall is a community of people who are experiencing common mental health problems who are supported to self-manage their own mental health. According to members, one of the most important elements of the service is the ability to talk freely, whilst remaining completely anonymous.
Big White Wall has won multiple awards for its services, and its LiveTherapy service is CQC registered. It is free to join for Regular and Reserve members of the Armed Forces and their family members.
The mental health charity, who offer advice and run support groups for those affected by mental health problems. To find your nearest MIND, please visit their website.
Mental fitness is all about the good management of good mental health.
HeadFIT for Life helps defence people stay mentally fit and on top of their game…
At work and at home.
FELIX FUND – THE BOMB DISPOSAL CHARITY
Almost everyday bomb disposal and search personnel deal with highly pressured situations.
This continued exposure to intense stress can have lasting effects, both physical and mental.
Felix Fund aims to assist with the well-being of individuals within the
Exposure Ordnance Disposal (EOD) and Search Community.