Serving within the British army: research into mental health benefits

British Journal of Nursing - Tập 20 Số 19 - Trang 1256-1261 - 2011
Alan Finnegan1, Sara Finnegan1, Paula McGee1, Robert Ashford1, Robin Simpson1
1British Army; Birmingham City University; Birmingham City University; MOD

Tóm tắt

The mental health (MH) of soldiers remains extremely newsworthy and is regularly featured in high profile media forums that focus on post-traumatic stress disorder. However, the authors feel that there are distinct benefits to serving within the Army, and that it provides effective occupational medical, MH and welfare support. This research study explores potential benefits and stressors of being in the Army and provides an overview of Army mental health services (AMHS) through the perspectives of AMHS personnel, 84% of which were nurses. The study indicated that the Army can provide a protective community, sharing a bond based on common values and experiences. The Army can provide soldiers with career opportunities that are not available in civilian life, and there are opportunities to develop an employment profile, enhanced by internal and external educational training, and encapsulated within a progressive career pathway. The Army can also be seen to offer an escape route, preventing soldiers entering a life of crime, and supplying the stable family these soldiers had never experienced. The provision of leadership, within an environment where soldiers are valued and stigma is not tolerated can potentially shield against MH problems.

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Thông tin xuất bản

British Journal of Nursing

Tập 20 Số 19

1256-1261

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