If you, a loved one or friend are in crisis or at risk of suicide or self-harm, call or text the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.
Veterans eligible for VA medical care can receive general and specialty mental health treatment as needed. Mental health services are available in primary care clinics (including Home Based Primary Care), general and specialty mental health outpatient clinics, inpatient mental health units, residential rehabilitation and treatment programs, specialty medical clinics, and Community Living Centers.
Mental Health services are also available in medical settings in which patients are receiving treatment, such as inpatient medicine and outpatient specialty medical clinics. In addition to general mental health care, this may include specialized PTSD services, treatment for veterans with psychological conditions related to a history of military sexual trauma, psychosocial rehabilitation and recovery services, treatment for substance use disorders, suicide prevention programs, geriatric mental health problems, violence prevention, evidence-based psychotherapy programs, treatment with psychiatric medications consistent with VA Clinical Practice Guidelines, integrated care services, and mental health disaster response/post deployment activities.
Specialized programs, such as mental health intensive case management, psychosocial rehabilitation and recovery centers, and work programs are provided for veterans with serious mental health problems. VA's Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers entitles the designated primary and secondary Family Caregiver(s) access to mental health. These services may be offered at the VA and/or contracted agencies. General Caregivers (of all era Veterans) can receive counseling and other services when necessary if the treatment supports the Veteran's treatment plan. For more information on VA Mental Health services visit www.mentalhealth.va.gov/VAMentalHealthGroup.asp
Overseas Help
Some veterans and members of the military community outside the U.S may also receive free, confidential support from the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. All calls are routed to responders in the U.S.
- In Europe, call or text 00800 1273 8255 or DSN 118.
- In Korea, call or text 0808 555 118 or DSN 118.
- In Afghanistan, call or text 00 1 800 273 8255 or DSN 111
Make the Connection Resources
These resources help veterans and their family members connect with information and services to improve their lives. Visitors to MakeTheConnection.net will find a one-stop resource where veterans and their families and friends can privately explore information, watch stories similar to their own, research content on mental health issues and treatment, and easily access support and information that will help them live more fulfilling lives.
At the heart of Make the Connection are powerful personal testimonials, which illustrate true stories of Veterans who faced life events, experiences, physical injuries or psychological symptoms; reached out for support; and found ways to overcome their challenges. Veterans and their families are encouraged to "make the connection" - with strength and resilience of Veterans like themselves, with other people who care, and with information and available resources for getting their lives on a better track. For more information, go to www.MakeTheConnection.net
Coaching Into Care
This program works with family members or friends who become aware of the veteran's post-deployment difficulties, and supports their efFt.s to find help for the Veteran. This national clinical service provides information and help to Veterans and the loved ones who are concerned about them. More information about the service can be found at www.mirecc.va.gov/coaching/
VA's National Center for PTSD serves as a resource for healthcare professionals, Veterans and families. Information, self-help resources, and other helpful information can be found at www.ptsd.va.gov.
PTSD Coach Mobile App
The PTSD Coach is a mobile application that provides information about PTSD, self assessment and symptom management tools and provides information about to connect with resources that are available for those who might be dealing with post trauma effects. The PTSD Coach is available as a free download for iPhone or Android devices.
Mental Health Residential Rehabilitation
Mental Health Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Programs (MH RRTP) (including domiciliaries) provide residential rehabilitative and clinical care to Veterans who have a wide range of problems, illnesses, or rehabilitative care needs which can be medical, psychiatric, substance use, homelessness, vocational, educational, or social. The MH RRTP provides a 24-hour therapeutic setting utilizing a peer and professional support environment. The programs provide a strong emphasis on psychosocial rehabilitation and recovery services that instill personal responsibility to achieve optimal levels of independence upon discharge to independent or supportive community living. MH RRTP also provides rehabilitative care for homeless Veterans.
Eligibility: VA may provide domiciliary care to veterans whose annual gross household income does not exceed the maximum annual rate of VA pension or to veterans the VA determines have no adequate means of support. The copays for extended care services apply to domiciliary care. Call the nearest benefits or health care facility at 800-827-1000 to obtain the latest information.
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