PTSD view from Scotland

Mum demands more help for Gulf War vets and ex-soldiers





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View GalleryA CONCERNED mum is calling on the UK Government to give better support to war veterans affected by their time in combat.
Patricia Davis, from Lennoxtown, says her son George suffers from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) since serving in the army.

When he was 17, George joined the Queen's Own Highlanders, serving in Germany, Northern Ireland and Iraq.

He left the forces in the mid-90s after developing a range of symptoms which are commonly referred to as 'Gulf War Syndrome'.

Now 37, and after years of suffering alone, George attends Hollybush House, a veterans' facility in Ayr.

Hollybush House offers residential respite care for those affected by PTSD.

More than 34 people from East Dunbartonshire use the facility annually, benefiting from services such as counselling, massage and relaxation treatments.

The centre, which treats approximately 850 people every year, is a charity funded by organisations such as the Royal British Legion and the Congregational Church of Scotland.

Patricia said: "Hollybush is a wonderful place, but it needs support from the Government.

"My son used to be a fun, kind, caring person - now he is virtually a recluse. It is very sad for all the family.

"The Government is quick to sign these young people up, but they don't support them enough when they are discharged."
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