Two Military Veterans Supporting Their Fellow Veterans’ Mental Health

Amid the backdrop of a bustling Norfolk town, two figures emerge as beacons of hope for struggling veterans. John Marham and Tracey Slater, both seasoned military veterans, are leveraging their unique skills and experiences to address a pressing issue—mental health challenges facing ex-service members. They are at the forefront of Op COURAGE East of England, a specialist mental health service crucial to the wellbeing of veterans and service leavers across the region.

The Scope of the Challenge

Op COURAGE serves an extensive area covering Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, and Milton Keynes, reflecting a significant commitment to veterans’ mental health. Jointly delivered by the Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (EPUT) and various military charities, the initiative demonstrates the pressing need for specialized mental health care within this community, which has seen a rise in referrals—about 50 per month.

• Military Experience: All staff associated with Op COURAGE possess military backgrounds or extensive experience with the Armed Forces.
• Trauma Realities: It may take an average of 12 years for symptoms of PTSD to manifest, often exacerbated by new traumatic events.
• Community Support: Initiatives not only focus on mental health but encompass holistic support covering finance, housing, and social issues.

John Marham, a former Scots Guardsman with over 23 years in service, leads a team of 35, committed to breaking the stigma that surrounds mental illness within the military community. “It’s more than just a job for us; it’s a calling,” John asserts. “We’re not just offering treatment; we’re fostering understanding. The unique experiences we all share allow us to relate in ways that others may not.”

Understanding the Unique Perspective

Tracey Slater, who has her own history as a mental health nurse within the Queen Alexandra’s Royal Naval Nursing Service, emphasizes the importance of recognizing the specific needs of veterans. “Often, veterans do not realize the ramifications of their experiences until years later,” she explains. “They might think, ‘I did what I was trained for. I’ve left that world behind.’ Yet, underlying trauma can linger, often surfacing unexpectedly.”

This insight echoes findings from a 2022 study published in the Journal of Military Psychology, which indicated that nearly 70% of veterans experience prolonged trauma-related symptoms, hindering their reintegration into civilian life.

Programs Making a Difference

One of the standout initiatives within Op COURAGE is the 16-week Veteran Stabilisation Programme, co-facilitated by Tracey and a team of psychologists. Veterans who participate often report transformative experiences. “Being surrounded by people who truly understand the struggles you face is invaluable,” she notes. “PTSD can be isolating, and our programs foster a sense of community—something that many veterans miss after service.”

As they go through the program, participants share personal testimonies—illustrating struggles with relationships, employment, and even substance misuse—further demonstrating the complex aftermath of military service. John stresses, “Mental illness is not a sign of weakness. The mental toll of service, the unseen injuries, affects soldiers regardless of their roles. Transitioning to civilian life can be as daunting as combat.”

Looking Forward

Both John and Tracey are motivated by a sense of duty towards their fellow veterans. They embody the camaraderie they once experienced in the armed forces, extending it into their current roles. “Coming to Op COURAGE was like coming home for me,” Tracey reveals. “Regardless of the branch of service, there’s an immediate bond. It’s this spirit of togetherness that we aim to recreate for other veterans.”

Experts in military psychology, such as Dr. Liam O’Reilly from the Institute of Veteran Affairs, suggest that such initiatives are critical in bridging the gap between military and civilian life. “Veterans face challenges that often go unnoticed. Programs like Op COURAGE play an essential role in building resilience, redefining identity beyond the uniform, and facilitating recovery,” Dr. O’Reilly states.

John corroborates this sentiment, stating, “Our mission extends beyond treatment. We are building a roadmap for reintegration, where veterans can reclaim their identities and lives post-service.” Through ongoing partnerships with local organizations and charities, Op COURAGE fosters a comprehensive support system that addresses not just mental health but also financial security and social integration.

In an environment often overshadowed by statistics and narratives of struggle, John and Tracey represent a robust counter-narrative of resilience, support, and hope. Their work transcends clinical boundaries, uniting the community under a shared commitment to mental well-being. They understand intimately the bond of service and aim to transform that camaraderie into a foundational platform for healing and recovery.

Source: www.inyourarea.co.uk