Parents of soldier who took his own life speak about their loss in the hope it will help others

The parents of a solider who took his own life just two months after the suicide of his friend, have been speaking about their loss in the hope it might prevent others going through what they have.

George Ellis, who served in the Yorkshire regiment was just 24 when he died in April.

George with his dad, Adrian

The loss of their son, who they describe as a 'loveable character who was funny, kind and caring' is still very raw for Carol and Adrian.

Adrian Ellis said: "The question that keeps going through my mind is why? I believe it was a moment of madness, a switch that we all have and in that moment of time it just happened."

George's death came just a month after the funeral of his close friend and fellow veteran Damon Hakin, who'd also taken his own life.

Carol and Adrian said they will never know what exactly was going through George's mind on the day he died, but they do know that many veterans struggle with the transition from military to civilian life.

The charity Hull 4 Heroes said the increased isolation caused by the pandemic has made things harder for many.

Paul Matson from the organisation said: "Many people are in despair and calling on a very regular basis. Along time ago before Covid-19 came we were getting possibly a call every three months, now it is two a week."

"People are starting to get together more now and we have lots of things happening to bring veterans together and improve mental health. And we hope our Veterans Village project will also make it easier for people to adjust mentally to civilian life", he added.

It is estimated that since 2018, more than 250 serving or former military personnel have taken their own lives.  

The MOD says it takes mental health extremely seriously and "encourages anyone who is struggling to come forward and access the wide range of support available."

George's parents are determined that out of their grief, some good will come and that in his memory, they can send a message to others who might be struggling.

Carol and Adrian Ellis - George's parents

Adrian said: "Talk. Don't be afraid to talk. There are many people out there who are willing to help. But it is actually making that first step in saying that you do require some help. I believe George would be proud of his mum and I for talking about mental health and how important it is."

Carol added: "I do not believe anything is so bad that it can't be sorted. A problem shared is a problem halved.

What to do if you or someone you know needs help:

  • If you are in distress or need some support, the Samaritans are available 24 hours a day on 116 123 or through their website.

  • Veterans' mental health charity Combat Stress is available 24 hours a day on 0800 138 1619 for veterans and their families, 0800 323 444 for serving personnel and their families, via text on 07537 404719, or through their website.

  • Veterans' charity SSAFA is available on 0800 731 4880 or through their website.

  • The Government's Veterans' Gateway offers advice and help for veterans seeking support and can be contacted on 0800 802 1212 or through the website.

  • Mind offers a helpline on 0300 123 3393 from 9am to 6pm.

  • Rock 2 Recovery - which helps veterans suffering from stress and their families - can be contacted on 01395 220072 Monday to Friday between 9am and 4pm, emailed at Support@rock2recovery.co.uk or through their website.

  • Hull 4 Heroes can be contacted on 01482 534483 or through their website

  • If you have lost a loved one in the military to suicide you can contact Jo Jukes who has created a private support group.