A Service Evaluation of the Military HeadFIT Initiative: An Implementation Study.

Amber Mckenzie,Laura Rafferty,Bethany Croak,Sharon A M Stevelink,Neil Greenberg

doi:10.3390/ijerph18147375

Amber Mckenzie, Laura Rafferty + Show 3 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18147375

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Abstract

(1) Background: UK Armed Forces personnel provide first response, support and protection during national and international disasters and conflicts. They thus have a psychologically challenging role which requires them to maintain a good state of mental health and wellbeing. HeadFIT is a preventative initiative developed to help foster mental fitness through various self-help tools and resources online including techniques to de-stress and increase drive. This paper reports on an independent service evaluation of HeadFIT to examine feasibility and acceptability among Ministry of Defence (MOD) personnel. (2) Methods: Qualitative interviews were held with the HeadFIT beneficiaries, including military personnel and civil servants. The beneficiaries provided feedback on HeadFIT through questionnaires and interviews, and website traffic data were also collected. Qualitative data were analysed using framework analysis. (3) Results: Beneficiaries generally reported positive views on the HeadFIT initiative, with most agreeing that the tools could support them to foster their mental fitness. However, concerns were raised around the uptake of HeadFIT and participants suggested methods to improve usability. (4) Conclusions: Several recommendations were made to improve the resources, usability, uptake, and implementation and communication of HeadFIT.

Highlights

IntroductionThe disciplined occupational environment, and lack of autonomy, within the Armed Forces may impact the mental health and wellbeing of military personnel [2]
Recent evidence has shown that 21.9% of military personnel who served in the military during the conflicts in Iraq and/or Afghanistan are likely to suffer with a common mental disorder (CMD) [3]
This paper reports on the main component of the service evaluation which concerned the pilot roll-out of HeadFIT in four military units and among a selection of Ministry of Defence (MOD) civil servants working in London

Summary

Introduction

The disciplined occupational environment, and lack of autonomy, within the Armed Forces may impact the mental health and wellbeing of military personnel [2]. Increasingly more attention has been paid to proactive mental health interventions, focusing on promoting positive mental wellbeing and preventing mental ill health such as OPSMART [5], SPEAR [6] and Regain [7].

Results

Discussion

Conclusion