“We adapt and overcome, and that’s what we were told to do”: A qualitative study on UK veterans’ experience of preparedness and the COVID-19 pandemic.

This thesis provides a synthesis of the existing literature on the impact of stress and anxiety on the performance of first responders, followed by an exploration of the experiences of preparedness and the COVID-19 pandemic on UK military veterans using reflective thematic analysis methodology. Paper 1 is a literature review that synthesises the current literature surrounding anxiety and stress in the decision-making of first responders. Ten articles were reviewed using the mixed methods appraisal tool (MMAT). Findings suggested that anxiety and stress do have an impact on the decision-making of first responders. The anxiety and stress impact could be mitigated by factors such as individual differences or specifics of their role, such as the experience gained during the role. Clinical implications of this review suggest that it is essential to consider how best to support first responders within their roles and foster resilience to manage difficult times. Paper 2 is an empirical paper exploring the experiences of preparedness and the COVID-19 pandemic on UK military veterans. Reflective thematic analysis was used, and three themes were identified: military mentality prepared us for this, harder for others than us, and protecting and serving the family. These themes showed that participants’ military experiences and preparedness provided skills to help them adapt better to COVID-19, which overall gave them a positive experience of COVID-19. Therefore, veterans with experience in preparedness may provide an untapped resource for disaster response management in the UK if we ever face a crisis or emergency like the COVID-19 pandemic again. Paper 3 is an executive summary of the empirical paper and has been reviewed by a UK veteran.