Where Can Veterans Discuss Mental Health?
- When our veterans chat about their mental health, they're able to make lasting, supportive connections. Learn about the best mental health resources for veterans.
Veterans are due our unending thanks and gratitude for their service. Unfortunately, veterans also suffer from severe mental health issues and frequently find themselves without anywhere to turn once back at home. According to the National Council for Behavioral Health, less than half of returning veterans reach out for help with their mental health.
Fortunately, technology and compassion are uniting to change the way mental health services are accessed and delivered. Now, veterans chat about mental health securely, remotely and confidentially. Learn about the best mental health resources for veterans.
Veterans Crisis Line
Available for veterans or loved ones who may be concerned about a veteran, the Veterans Crisis Line is available by dialing 1-800-273-8255, Option 1. For those who may not want to call, a veterans chat online and via text is available as an alternative. In addition to crisis counseling, the Veterans Crisis Line offers support and community resources for veterans and their loved ones.
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
Often the most logical stop for help, the VA has invested decades in improving mental health service delivery to improve access to mental health care. Now, there are a variety of programs designed to meet people where they are, whether they receive VA benefits or not. Some services offered include:
- Free mental health services for one year: Accessible online or by dialing 1-877-222-8387, the VA offers free mental health services after military separation regardless of discharge status, VA enrollment or service history.
- Virtual self-help through Veteran Training: Browse educational material about anger management, stress management and problem-solving skills through Veteran Training. This program is free and does not require any personal information.
- Peer support program from BeThere: A peer development program developed to connect veterans with one another, BeThere makes it possible for veterans to chat about mental health, the transition to civilian life and trauma. The service is available 24 hours a day by calling 1-800-342-9647.
Veterans Chat With Real Warriors Campaign
A service designed to help veterans tell their story, seek mental health care and find reliable, confidential support, Real Warriors offers online resources and telephonic guidance for veterans in need of mental health care. It also provides veterans with an opportunity to get involved in the improvement of mental health resources for fellow vets. Real Warriors can be reached at 1-866-966-1020.
Lifeline for Vets
From job opportunities to mental health resources, Lifeline for Vets, developed by the National Veterans Foundation, connects veterans to fellow veterans. This resource offers individualized support for all veterans, including women and survivors. In addition to help finding mental health care, Lifeline for Vets offers peer support and confidential veterans chat. Lifeline for Vets can be reached via phone at 1-888-777-4443 or you can request assistance online.