29.10.2024 Update : “Service no longer accepting new referrals. Please refer to other mental health services or resources where indicated”
Armed Force Veterans are estimated to make up 5% of the UK population and suffer significantly higher prevalences of mental ill health. The commonest disorders noted in a British primary care study were depression at 18%, followed by alcohol misuse at 17%, anxiety 15%, and post-traumatic stress disorder 3%. Levels were higher in women and in those with combat experience (see Resources and Links for reference).
NHS Lothian provides a one stop shop for all Veterans’ mental health and wellbeing needs at Veterans F1rst Point.
Veterans First Point also has a network across Scotland based in Tayside, Fife, Borders, Lanarkshire, Ayrshire and Arran. Further information can be found on the V1P website www.veteransfirstpoint.org.uk opens a new window
The RCGP offers a Veterans’ healthcare toolkit opens a new window and practices can gain accreditation as veteran friendly.
C.M 09-01-24
