On Remembrance Day, we not only honour those who served but also recognise the mental health journey many veterans face after service. In a powerful BBC Sounds interview, Mick Devaney shared his thoughts on mental health, resilience, and the importance of accessible support for veterans. At ACSIS Life Coaching, we resonate deeply with Mick’s message and want to share a few takeaways for those looking to prioritise their mental well-being.

Watch Mick Devaney’s interview on BBC iPlayer (Interview start: 2:15:25): https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m0024z18/remembrance-sunday-the-cenotaph-2024

1. It’s Okay to Struggle

Mick reminds us that experiencing mental health challenges is natural, especially during times of reflection like Remembrance. Acknowledging this can be the first step toward healing. At ACSIS, we believe in normalising these struggles and supporting those who seek resilience and growth.

ACSIS Action: Take a few minutes each day to write down how you’re truly feeling without judgment. Acknowledge your struggles and remind yourself that it’s okay to not have it all figured out right now.

Journaling is a powerful way to connect with your thoughts, process emotions, and gain clarity. Starting a journal doesn’t have to be complicated; the goal is to create a safe space for your mind to roam. To begin, find a quiet moment each day, grab a notebook or digital app, and write freely without worrying about structure or grammar. Start with prompts like “Today, I feel…” or “What’s on my mind is…” to help get words flowing. Over time, this simple habit can become a tool for self-discovery, reflection, and personal growth.

2. Set Achievable Goals

Mick’s insights mirror our approach to setting small, achievable goals that help us manage mental health effectively. By breaking down larger challenges into manageable steps, you can create a path to sustainable progress. SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Timely) goals help us focus, break things down in to achievable smaller chunks.

ACSIS Action: Choose one larger goal and break it down into three small, specific tasks. Write these down and set a realistic timeline for each. Start with the first task and celebrate completing it, no matter how small it may feel. If you don’t complete the task within your self-imposed timeframe, that’s okay – progress isn’t always linear, and you can always adjust and try again.

3. Value Connection

Mental health is often a team effort. Whether through friends, family, or professional support, having people to rely on can make a huge difference. At ACSIS, we prioritise connection and community to help you feel grounded and supported.

ACSIS Action: Reach out to one person today, whether it’s a friend, family member, or a support group, and share something on your mind. Prioritise quality time or conversation with people who make you feel safe and understood. If there’s someone you haven’t spoken to in a while or perhaps fallen out with, reconnecting might feel daunting. Take it slow; even a simple message to check in or say hello can be a powerful first step in rebuilding that connection.

4. Build a Routine That Supports You

As Mick points out, routines can provide stability and comfort. Simple practices like daily walks, journaling, or mindfulness can go a long way in supporting mental resilience. Establishing routines that nourish you is at the heart of our coaching.

ACSIS Action: Creating a routine that supports you begins with exploring what feels both manageable and meaningful. Start by identifying a small, positive habit you’d like to include daily, like a five-minute walk, journaling, or stretching. Choose a time that works best with your current schedule—whether it’s a calm morning, midday break, or winding down at night—and commit to this activity consistently for a week. Notice how it makes you feel and adjust as needed. Finding the right routine is about experimenting and being kind to yourself as you discover what truly supports and nourishes you over time.

So, take a moment to reflect on how small steps toward mental well-being can lead to lasting change. If you or someone you know needs support, ACSIS Life Coaching is here to help.

Let’s honour our mental health journey with the same commitment as we honour those who served.

Mental Health Support Resources for Veterans

If you or someone you know needs help, reach out to these organisations:

• Samaritans – Call 116 123 (available 24/7)

• Combat Stress – Call 0800 138 1619 or text 07537 173683

• Royal British Legion – Call 0808 802 8080 (8am-8pm, 7 days a week)

• Mind – Call 0300 123 3393 or text 86463

• Mental Health Foundation