Despite what we see on the news and at the cinema, most of us can only imagine the true horrors of war.

The experience of seeing a friend or colleague killed or seriously injured on the battlefield leaves deep psychological scars, often for a lifetime.

Others bear their own physical and mental torture from near-death episodes and have to attempt to come to terms with the loss of limbs.

Over the years, the level of support for veterans has only increased and improved.

But, as ex-footballer Clarke Carlisle said earlier this week, there is still an element of taboo and shame associated with mental health problems.

So although it is extremely alarming to learn that Combat Stress is reporting a sharp rise in the number of ex-service personnel seeking help for post traumatic stress disorder - six new cases every day as a fall-out from the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts - it’s also reassuring that people are seeking support.

In response, there must be significant financial investment in veterans’ mental health because the treatments work.

People like Rick Clement, who should be praised for his unrelenting quest to help, can play a massive part in bringing the relevant people together.