Prince William tells Armed Forces families bereaved by suicide ‘You are not alone’

The free At Your Side guides, which were commissioned by NHS England, are based on the experiences and needs of those who took part in the Armed Forces Suicide Bereavement Study, including friends, colleagues, spouses, partners, adult children, parents or siblings of those who died by suicide during or after serving.

The Prince, who served in the Army with the Blues and Royals as well as working as an RAF search and rescue pilot, described how the loss of a loved one to suicide can be a complex and long-term experience.

He said he hoped the guides would act as a vital source of guidance and help to those who are processing loss “during what can be dark days of grief”.

“At times of national and international crisis we look to our Armed Forces to provide help, support and stability,” he said.

“Members of our Armed Forces never shy away from a challenge – harnessing their skills and working together to help others. But in times of great challenge, it can be tempting to hide one’s own needs.”

Bereavement organisation ‘so grateful’ to Prince

The Prince added: “Few of us will go through our lives without experiencing the loss of someone we love.

“Thankfully, suicide is rare within the Armed Forces community, but for those bereaved by suicide, this loss can be a complex and long-term experience.

“Often the stigma surrounding suicide can prevent those affected from speaking out and seeking help.”

Suicide Bereavement UK specialises in suicide bereavement research and the development of evidence-informed support materials for bereaved people.

The organisation said it was “so grateful” to William, who has long campaigned on raising awareness of mental health, for writing his message.

As well as the two guides for veterans and families, another for serving personnel is expected to be launched shortly.

The guides can be downloaded athttp://www.suicidebereavementuk.com/armedforces/

For mental health support, contact the Samaritans on 116 123, email them at jo@samaritans.org or visit samaritans.org to find your nearest branch.