The Impact of Unaddressed Multiple Traumas; Before, During and After Military Service.

Research by Children’s Rights International Network (CRIN) shows that in England from 2013 to 2018, army recruitment of 16-17 year olds was 57% higher in the poorest fifth of constituencies than the richest fifth. Army recruitment marketing is focused on the poorest towns and cities, particularly families with an annual income of around £10,000. Four-fifths of the most deprived young people in England now stay in full-time education after age 16, but marketing for the military encourages them to leave education for the army. A third of recruits who enlist aged under 18 drop out before completing training leaving them out of education and work. Recruits aged under 18 are sought particularly for the frontline infantry; the army’s riskiest job. The army’s youngest recruits, especially those from deprived backgrounds, are most susceptible to stress-related mental health and behaviour problems associated with military life.

One of the key findings of Forward Assist over the last 11 years, has been that unaddressed multiple traumas can have profound and lasting impacts on individuals' mental, emotional, and physical well-being before, during and after military service. Multiple traumas can significantly increase the risk of developing mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and complex PTSD. These traumas can overwhelm an individual's ability to cope, leading to persistent feelings of fear, hopelessness, and helplessness. Similarly, these traumas can result in intense and overwhelming emotions such as anger, shame, guilt, and sadness. Individuals may struggle to regulate their emotions, leading to mood swings, emotional numbness, and difficulty forming healthy relationships. Chronic stress resulting from unaddressed traumas can contribute to a variety of physical health issues, including high blood pressure, heart disease, immune system suppression, and gastrointestinal problems. The body's constant activation of the stress response can take a toll on various organ systems over time. Individuals may turn to substances such as drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with the pain and distress caused by multiple traumas. Substance abuse can further exacerbate mental health issues and lead to a cycle of addiction that is difficult to break without appropriate intervention. Multiple traumas can strain relationships with family members, friends, and romantic partners. Individuals may struggle to trust others, communicate effectively, and maintain healthy boundaries, leading to conflict and isolation. Unaddressed traumas can impair an individual's ability to function effectively in various areas of life. Symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, and dissociation can interfere with concentration, memory, and decision-making. Without proper support and treatment, individuals may be at risk of experiencing additional traumas, as they may be more vulnerable to situations or relationships that are reminiscent of past traumatic experiences. The effects of unaddressed multiple traumas can persist for years or even decades if left untreated. Without intervention, individuals may continue to struggle with symptoms and difficulties throughout their lives, impacting their overall quality of life and well-being. Addressing multiple traumas typically requires a comprehensive and trauma-informed approach that may include therapy, support groups, medication, lifestyle changes, and other forms of support. It's essential for veterans who have experienced multiple traumas to seek help from qualified mental health professionals who can provide the appropriate care and support needed for healing and recovery.

Tony Wright CEO Forward Assist