Gender differences in barriers to mental healthcare for UK military veterans: A preliminary investigation

Godier-McBard, Lauren and Cable, Graham and Wood, Abigail and Fossey, Matt (2021) Gender differences in barriers to mental healthcare for UK military veterans: A preliminary investigation. BMJ Military Health. ISSN 2633-3775

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Abstract

Introduction: Limited UK research focuses on female military veterans’ gender-related experiences and issues when accessing civilian mental healthcare support. This study sought to illuminate a preliminary understanding of any gender differences in barriers that may discourage them accessing mental healthcare support. Methods: A total of 100 participants completed an open online survey of UK triservice veterans who identified as having experienced postmilitary mental health problems. They completed a 30-item Barriers to Access to Care Evaluation scale and were asked to elaborate using free-text questions. Resulting quantitative data were analysed for gender-related differences, while the qualitative text was thematically explored. Results: While stigma, previous poor experience of mental healthcare and a lack of trust in civilian providers were found to act as barriers to postmilitary support for both men and women, significantly more women reported that their gender had also impacted on their intention to seek help. Women also commented on the impact of gender-related discrimination during service on their help-seeking experiences. Conclusions: While efforts are being made by the UK Ministry of Defence to reduce barriers to mental healthcare for those still serving in the Armed Forces, it has been more difficult to provide a similar level of support to the veteran population. With little veteran research focusing on the specific experiences of women, this study suggests that female veterans encounter specific access barriers and issues related to their gender. Further research is therefore needed to ensure these findings are addressed.

Item Type:	Journal Article
Keywords:	Gender, Female, Veterans, Ex-service, Mental health, Barriers, Help-seeking
Faculty:	Faculty of Health, Education, Medicine & Social Care
SWORD Depositor:	Symplectic User
Depositing User:	Symplectic User
Date Deposited:	26 Feb 2021 13:49
Last Modified:	07 Feb 2022 17:00
URI:	https://arro.anglia.ac.uk/id/eprint/706370

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