New research from Combat Stress, a UK mental health charity for veterans, has found that less than half (42 per cent) of GPs are familiar with the NICE guidelines on treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). 

The findings have led the charity to call on GPs to improve the way they deal with PTSD and other mental health conditions affecting veterans.

A survey of GPs has revealed that awareness of the NICE guidelines on PTSD hasn't increased since the 2011 study, which also saw just 42 per cent awareness. This is despite a strong focus on mental health by the government since then.

Other findings from the survey include that only one per cent of GPs have completed a Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP) training module of healthcare for veterans. In fact, just 12 per cent had heard of it before the survey, while 20 per cent don't intend to complete it now they are aware of it. The RCGP offers this training module free online.

Combat Stress is now concerned that some veterans may not be able to access the best possible treatment for PTSD and other mental health concerns due to a lack of awareness among GPs about the specialist services available.

However, GPs do believe that more funding needs to be provided by the government to support mental health services for veterans.

Despite the survey's findings, Combat Stress has helped more veterans over the last decade, showing that the charity is providing valuable support. The year 2015/16 saw a record 2,472 veterans seek help, many of whom reported a lack of knowledge and understanding from NHS clinicians.

Many veterans self-refer to the charity, even though Combat Stress runs an NHS Commissioned specialist treatment programme for those suffering from PTSD and other mental health concerns.

You can find out more about how Combat Health can help you or someone you know, or donate to the cause here: http://www.combatstress.org.uk/