Breaking the Stigma for Veterans: Why Mental Health Matters

June is Men’s Mental Health Month and at Troopr, we’re shining a spotlight on the mental well-being of our male veterans, active service members, and military spouses. Your mental health matters just as much as your physical fitness and we’ve got key advice to help you stay strong - inside and out. For too long, silence has surrounded the mental health struggles of men and at Troopr, we believe it's time to break that silence and the stigma that comes with it.

Here are our five key tips to support mental well-being:

1. Do not suffer in silence

The first step toward getting support is speaking up. Whether it’s a professional or a trusted friend, opening up takes courage, not weakness. In fact, it takes real strength to say, ‘I’m struggling’.

If you are struggling and need someone to talk to, many military charities have dedicated helplines:

• Royal British Legion - 0808 802 8080
• Combat Stress - 0800 138 1619

If you're in crisis, please don't wait, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E. You are not alone, and there are people who want to help you right now.

2. Understand the signs

It might sound simple, but recognising the signs you're struggling is crucial. Learn to spot the warning signals before you hit a breaking point. Don’t brush them off early, awareness is your best defence.

3. Keep moving

We all know exercise is great for your body, but it’s just as powerful for your mind. Staying active can lift your mood, reduce stress, and build confidence. Find a sport or activity you enjoy, challenge yourself, and stay consistent. You might even discover new friendships and goals along the way - all of which fuel better mental health!

• Wellness Movement is one of our trusted partners and a great example of helping people rebuild both physically and mentally. Founded by former Royal Marine Ollie Osborne, Wellness Movement offers results-driven, holistic health and performance coaching for high-performing individuals who’ve lost their way. Their mission is simple: to support veterans, executives, and professionals in returning to peak performance, physically, mentally, and emotionally.
• Phoenix Heroes is a Community Interest Company based in Colchester, UK, dedicated to supporting veterans through meaningful outdoor activities. Founded in 2018 by British Army veteran Gary Stockton, Phoenix Heroes has grown into a well-respected organisation, offering veterans a sense of purpose, connection, and wellbeing through nature-based experiences and peer support.

4. Stay connected - you are not alone

Reach out to friends and family, reconnect with old mates, or join a veteran support group or local community programme. Spending time with people you care about can lift your mood and remind you that you’re never alone. You can also explore well-being opportunities on Troopr’s unique platform designed specifically for the Armed Forces Community.

5. There’s no shame in reaching out

You're not alone and today, more support than ever is available for the Armed Forces community.

Here are just a few trusted organisations making a real difference for veterans and their families:

• Andy’s Man Club runs over 200 free support groups every Monday at 7PM (excluding bank holidays), offering men a safe, non-judgmental space to talk about what they’re going through.
• Healthier Heroes CIC supports ex-service personnel, their families, and carers, along with NHS and blue light workers, through help with housing, education, employment, isolation, and wellbeing.
• Veterans Welfare Group connects veterans with trusted professionals before, during, and after discharge, with a special focus on those living with long-term injuries.

Remember, you’re not alone. Visit our website to explore a range of wellbeing resources tailored to your needs.