The Combat Stress At Ease appeal will be launched by the Prince of Wales Monday evening at St James’s Palace and is aiming to raise £10 million. The money is looking to be raised over three years to help demand on the Combat Stress charity of which Prince Charles is patron. Demand for mental health support for veterans has increased with referrals doubling to 2,000 a year in the last decade.

Prince Charles said the money raised will allow the charity to continue to support veterans with treatment.

This includes a PTSD intensive treatment programme, short-stay clinical treatment and a free 24-hour helpline and text number.

The PTSD intensive treatment programme will be used in the community to provide flexible access to the treatment.

The money raised will also introduce a new video therapy programme and expand its peer support service.

President of Combat Stress General Sir Peter Wall said the campaign to raise money will transform the lives of millions of veterans who have paid a “high-price” for their country.

Sir Peter said: “Please help us take this urgent step forward in veteran mental health treatment.

“I hope you will join us in our missions to change the lives of those veterans – and their families – who so badly need our help and give your support for the At Ease appeal.

The charity is in its centenary year and helps former servicemen and women manage trauma-related mental health issues like anxiety and depression.

King’s College London conducted research which found the PTSD disorder among veterans is nearly twice as high compared to the general public.

The research also found one in five veterans who served on the frontline in Iraq and Afghanistan are predicted to get PTSD.

The appeal launch comes on the first day of mental health week – where other royals are getting involved in related events.

Prince William and stars of television and music have recorded a radio message highlighting the value of listening to a friend in need.

The minute-long message will be broadcast at 10:59am across hundreds of UK radio stations Monday.

The message features Prince William along with Katy Perry, Stephen Fry, Jameela Jamil and Alesha Dixon.

Their message discusses the value of listening and how this can play a positive role in mental health.

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