King’s Centre for Military Health Research: A fifteen year report
This report presents a comprehensive overview of the findings from the King's Centre for Military Health Research (KCMHR) research on the UK Armed Forces' health, which has been ongoing for 15 years. The study examines the health and well-being of UK Armed Forces personnel, focusing on the impact of military service, including deployment to conflict zones such as Iraq and Afghanistan. Key areas of investigation include mental health outcomes, physical health, and the social and occupational functioning of service members. The report highlights significant issues such as the prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, alcohol misuse, and the challenges faced during the transition to civilian life. The findings underscore the importance of continued support and targeted interventions to address the health needs of military personnel and veterans. The study provides valuable insights into the long-term effects of military service, informing policy and practice aimed at improving the health and well-being of those who serve.
Abstract: The U.S. Army’s Ask, Care, Escort (ACE) suicide gatekeeper training has been the annual requirement for all personnel since 2009; however, this training has never been formally evaluated. The present study evaluated three updated versions of ACE: a training for Army leaders (ACE-Suicide Intervention), a training for basic combat trainees (ACE for Basic Combat Training and One Station Unit Training), and a standard training for all personnel (ACE for the Force). Self-report surveys measured pre- to posttraining changes in objective and subjective knowledge and stigma, as well as preparedness, self-efficacy, and likelihood to engage in gatekeeper behaviors. Implementation outcomes, such as training acceptability, suitability, and usability were also assessed. Across these evaluations, participants reported that knowledge and gatekeeper behaviors significantly improved from pre- to posttraining. Implementation metrics revealed a high degree of acceptability and relevance for all three ACE trainings. Overall, the findings of these evaluations suggest important changes in key suicide prevention outcomes following the ACE suite of trainings. Further longitudinal assessment is needed to establish the full effectiveness of gatekeeper interventions in the Army.