The current situation in Afghanistan and the withdrawal of UK and US troops has led to significant anxiety and unrest and will impact many within our veteran community.
Individuals who have served could be experiencing strong emotional reactions to the ongoing crisis including anger, grief and despair as well as the reliving of difficult memories.
It is normal to feel upset or confused and there is no right or wrong way to react to the situation.
NAViGO are committed to supporting the mental wellbeing of those within our armed forces as well as veterans and their families and offer a range of confidential support services.
Expert help is also available from Op COURAGE, the Veterans Mental Health and Wellbeing Service.
Checking in with the veterans in your life is also important. Talk to them. Look out for each other and encourage them to chat about how they are feeling.
Find out some top tips for how to approach a friend or family member if you think they might be struggling with their mental health.
Get help
If you are struggling to cope, are worried about someone you know or need to speak to someone urgently, there is a range of help available.
The 24/7 mental health support service offers support to anyone who is struggling with their mental health in any way. It's free and available 24 hours a day. Just call (01472) 256256 and select option 3 or freephone 08081 968442.
If you’re in a mental health crisis and need urgent help, call the Single Point of Access on (01472) 256256 and select option 3. They are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- Safespace provides instant support if you’re vulnerable and need assistance with your mental health out-of-hours. You can speak to the team using Zoom or by walking into NAViGO House on Brighowgate in Grimsby, between 5.30pm and 11pm, Monday to Friday.
- Open Minds offers a range of talking therapies aimed at helping you to deal with the effects of stress, anxiety and depression. You can self-refer to Open Minds online.