ARMY wives are the latest focus of a campaign in Dorset to tackle the stigma suffered by those living with mental illness.

Dorset HealthCare has teamed up with the national ‘Time to Change’ charities Mind and Rethink Mental Illness.

This year the trust has introduced new support sessions for army wives.

Equality and Diversity Manager at Dorset HealthCare, David Corbin said: “The trauma and impact serving in the forces can have on an individual’s mental health is well publicised, but less is known about the affects it has on those who are left at home.

“Many army wives experience frequent disruption to their home life due to relocating for posting. The impact of this is that often wives and partners are left isolated in an unfamiliar area without friends or family nearby for support, whilst their partner is on operational tour, and we have found many do not have access to a car. Due to the isolation that these combined factors create, it is not uncommon for an army wife to suffer from depression or anxiety, as we have found to be the case in Dorset.”

He added: “Children also have to face the daunting prospect of starting at a new school and families have the added pressure of reorganising their GP and making sure that any current treatment is transferred, both of which can be time consuming and stressful.”

To help combat this, Dorset HealthCare has introduced a focus on local coffee and chat sessions, held every Friday in Bovington. These sessions are designed to provide a support network, as well as an opportunity to socialise and build friendships. This year the trust will be looking to expand and introduce new sessions in Blandford, Hamworthy and Lulworth.

Mr Corbin added: “As well as the coffee mornings, the group has also put together an art exhibition which is on display at the Tank Museum.

“We are continually hosting fundraisers to facilitate this vital support group. In November we raised over £2,000 at a swimathon.We are also hoping to raise enough funding to help support a minibus service this year." so those who do not have access to either a car or frequent public transport will still be able to attend the groups. At the end of last year 'Time to Change’ received a generous £1,000 donation from a solider whose wife tragically committed suicide as a result of mental health issues. This is a real and pressing issue and it is imperative that we continue to build on the services already available in Dorset. Already the increased awareness that has come from the group and exhibition has encouraged other wives who were feeling isolated to come forward and seek support.”

Dorset HealthCare’s Access and Equalities Development team has identified a gap in the accessibility of support services which could benefit those suffering in silence. The coffee and chat sessions, fundraising, and other ongoing campaigns aim to encourage those who are suffering to engage with the support available and also to provide feedback on what still needs to be done. This is an ongoing mission with the end goal that every army wife in Dorset will be aware of where they can find support should they need it.

The ‘Time To Change’ campaign is designed to show that it’s often the little things that make a difference when it comes to supporting someone with a mental health problem – whether that’s having a cup of tea and a chat, keeping in touch by sending a text message, or going for a walk with a friend. Dorset HealthCare’s Steps2Wellbeing service also offers a range of treatments for people experiencing mild to moderate depression and anxiety disorders.

To find out more about the sessions or services available contact Dorset HealthCare’s Access and Equalities Development Team on 01305 361474.