Community Veterans Mental Health Service

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) testimonial

I was a soldier in the Royal Regiment of Wales from 1981-1986 and saw active service in Northern Ireland. During this tour I experienced several incidents that have plagued me since.

Following the completion of the tour I could not understand why my whole personality changed, I found that I was drinking to excess and getting angry and jumpy which affected my family and career and. I was experiencing flashbacks, nightmares, mood changes, sleepless nights, night sweats, depression anxiety and stress.  I did not seek help for these symptoms and did not speak to any mates as I did not want to be labelled as a fruit loop or basket case so I just put up and shut up so to speak.

On leaving the Army the symptoms continued and I did at one point 2 yrs after my discharge speak to my GP as the symptoms I was suffering with were getting worse.  I guess at that time I did not express myself clearly enough as once again I did not want to be labelled as a fruit loop and was embarrassed to be asking for help (maybe this is a soldier mind set).

The following years were no better my drinking increased my relationship with my wife and family deteriorated as I refused to accept that I had a problem.

It was only after 23 years where I physically could cope no longer and had to speak to my GP who referred me to the practice counsellor who after several sessions identified that I could be suffering with PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder) My GP referred me to the Community Mental health Team who informed me of a pilot project being funded by the MoD and Welsh Assembly Government for veterans with mental health Issues.

This community veterans mental health team is based in the UHW, Cardiff.  Following my referral I had a short wait before I received my appointment for an initial assessment.  I found my assessment with Neil Kitchiner very thorough and purposely built around my problems and anxieties on what the issues were.  Following the assessment I have undergone further 1-2-1 sessions with Neil and Dr Jonathon  Bisson.  These sessions were formed on a no pressure atmosphere in very relaxed surroundings.  I personally found it easier to speak to Neil and Jon because in my mind they were neutral and impartial and this helped to take a huge burden of my shoulders.  Everything is totally confidential and I can say it felt that at last I’m speaking to somebody who understands what I was going through.

I can honestly state that being referred on this veterans’ pilot service has made a huge difference to me and to be able to speak to a team that are focused primarily on the ex-service community who have the understanding of how combat PTSD affects ex-service personnel. Dr Jon Bisson is also ex-forces (army).  I would highly recommend to all ex-service personnel who believe that they are having problems to make enquiries on how to obtain a referral on this outstanding project.  

I’m glad that I have taken the first steps in getting the treatment required to help me to move on with my life. I just wish that I had taken these steps 23 years ago!