LONDON, Aug. 3 (UPI) -- Britain's Ministry of Defense is touting a Kings College study that says the overall rate of mental illness in the British armed forces remains low.
The Ministry of Defense welcomed the research, saying it only confirms that existing policies on military-tour intervals are right.
The research indicates the number of new cases of mental disorders in the first quarter of this year was 0.58 percent of the total armed forces' strength. The information collected is of all types of mental disorders, regardless of cause. The research also indicates the rate of new cases of post dramatic stress disorder was 0.03 percent.
"We recognize mental illness as a serious and disabling condition and we want to ensure that our people have the best possible mental health support," Undersecretary of State for Defense Derek Twigg said in a statement. "This is why the MoD commissioned research to monitor the health of those deployed on operations.
"We have taken great steps to raise awareness and to reduce the stigma associated with mental illness. These include pre- and post-deployment briefing and the availability of support, assessment and, if required, treatment -- both during and after deployments. We are studying the research to see how we can reduce even further the number of troops who suffer from mental illness."
Upon return from a tour military personnel can access outpatient care at one of the 15 military departments of Community Mental Health in the United Kingdom and overseas. In-patient care is provided by the Priory Group.
