Wiltshire soldier who lost four friends to suicide details struggles with mental health following Afghanistan conflict

Watch Caron Bell's report

A soldier who has spent years struggling with his mental health has opened about challenges he has faced in the hope it will encourage others to speak up.

Sergeant Alex Rigby has done two tours of Afghanistan with the Grenadier Guards which left him mentally scarred.

Alex, who is now based at Salisbury plain, lives with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), a condition that affects around 6% of current and former military personnel.

Alex says what he saw during his service impacted him Credit: ITV News West Country

PTSD can be devastating. At his lowest, Alex prepared to take his own life.

However, he got professional help just in time, but others, unfortunately, did not. He has lost four friends to suicide in the past three years.

Alex is now trying to encourage his colleagues to open up about their mental health. He has found walking gets people talking, and organises regular walks with friends.

Alex is now planning a 200-mile fundraising walk which will take place in October, and says despite his PTSD he is feeling positive about the future. 

If you need help or know someone that does you can contact the following organisations:

  • For serving personnel: 0800 232 4444 (operated by Combat Stress, funded by MOD)

  • For veterans and their families: The Veterans’ Gateway – 0808 802 1212

  • Samaritans' 24-hour free helpline: 116 123, www.samaritans.org

  • Clarity Charity: 01271 267474 or clarity.northdevon@yahoo.co.uk

  • Campaign Against Living Miserably: 0800 58 58 58