On Sunday 11 November, the nation will come together on Remembrance Sunday to honour those who are serving or have served in the armed forces and remember the service men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
This year, Remembrance Sunday falls on the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War, a conflict which ranks amongst the deadliest in human history.
It is an important time of year for serving personnel, veterans and their families. For some veterans this can bring back painful memories, they may continue to suffer from the trauma of military experiences so Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day provides an opportunity to show them that support is available to them.
Anxiety, depression, anger, sleep problems and post-traumatic stress disorder are all mental health issues which may present years after leaving the Armed Forces.
The Veterans Mental Health Transition, Intervention and Liaison Service (TIL) who are part of Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust (NTW), are the lead provider of services for the North of England TIL and are there to provide help and support for our troops and those who have served.
It is an important time of year for serving personnel, veterans and their families to remember former comrades or loved ones. Occasions like Remembrance Sunday also give us the opportunity to show former service men and women and their families that there is always help available for any of their mental health needs.
Maria BrownClinical Lead
For professional advice please contact Maria Brown, Veteran’s Mental Health Transition, Intervention and Liaison Service on 0191 441 5974 or email Maria Brown.
Anyone wishing to access the service should call 0303 123 1145 or to find out more information about TIL you can click on the link or email [email protected]. A range of self-help guides and useful information is also available at www.ntw.nhs.uk/selfhelp.