At the Royal Armouries Museum in Leeds, photojournalist James Arthur Allen has compiled a moving photographic exhibition to raise awareness of the mental health difficulties experiences by ex military personnel and service families.
The project named “A War Within” takes a compelling look at psychological issues soldiers can be faced with such as depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder. Opened last Friday and running until Monday October 29th, it’s a look into the difficult issues surrounding discharge from the forces and coping with life after the military.
Photographer James said:
“When I started this project it was always my intention to have it seen by as many as possible and to give a voice to the people that I had met. My aim was to tackle stigma, raise awareness and open people’s eyes to the realities of living with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
I am extremely happy that my work will be on show at the Royal Armouries Leeds. I hope the images on display, that relate to war, will cause the visitor to stop and think about the realities of being exposed to extreme violence and trauma and the effects that this can have on the human condition. As a society, we should not be afraid to talk openly, discuss and understand mental health issues.”
The exhibition also results from a unique partnership with the Love Arts Leeds Festival, and Leeds and York Partnership NHS Foundation Trust’s Vulnerable Veterans and Adult Dependants’ Service.
The festival runs from Tuesday, October 2, until Monday, October 29 – for more information visit www.loveartsleeds.co.uk