Make mental health screening mandatory after military deployments

Background

Require all Armed Forces personnel to have a mental health screening with a qualified clinician before post-deployment leave. This could help identify hidden struggles, provide early support, and reduce suicide risk among service members.

Additional details

Too many service personnel struggle in silence after deployment. In 2021, 253 UK veterans died by suicide, with rates significantly higher among those under 25. Studies show around 1 in 5 UK Armed Forces personnel experience mental health issues such as PTSD, depression or anxiety. Mandatory screening before leave could identify hidden struggles early, provide support, and help prevent avoidable deaths.

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