Prioritize your mental health with help from VA

Like many Veterans, you may put your family, your career and supporting others ahead of taking care of yourself. But to give those important aspects of your life your all and be the best version of yourself, you must also make your mental health a priority.

No matter where you are or what’s going on in your life, VA offers mental health appointments, telehealth services, mobile apps, self-help training and other resources to improve your well-being.

VA mental health resources

Mental health providers: VA has thousands of mental health providers across the country. They can work with you as you cope with or resolve whatever challenges you may be facing.

If you’re already using VA medical services, ask your primary care provider to help you make an appointment with a VA mental health provider. If you’re not already using VA medical services, contact your nearest VA medical center or Vet Center to talk about your needs and how to enroll.

Telehealth: You can connect with a VA mental health provider through a computer or mobile device – at home or wherever you feel comfortable. To set up telephone or video appointments, send your health care provider a secure message through My HealtheVet (myhealth.va.gov).

Learn more about telehealth options at mobile.va.gov/app/va-video-connect.

Mobile apps: Use your smartphone or tablet to access mental health support wherever you are, whenever you need it. VA’s mental health apps can help you manage PTSD-related symptoms and stress, learn to practice mindfulness, cope with life’s challenges, aid in addressing depression, support wellness and more.

Online self-help

VA offers many in-depth mental health resources online:

• VA’s mental health site features self-help tips and information about specific mental health topics and conditions for Veterans and their loved ones.
• Make the Connection provides Veterans and their family members, friends and other supporters with information about issues affecting their lives. Visitors can watch hundreds of videos of Veterans sharing their stories of strength and recovery. You can read about a variety of life events and mental health topics and locate nearby resources.
• Veteran Training is a self-help portal that provides tools for overcoming everyday challenges. The portal has tools to help Veterans sharpen problem-solving skills, manage anger and develop parenting skills. These services are available in an entirely anonymous environment. The free tools are based on mental health practices that have proved successful with Veterans and their families.
• Self-assessments can help you better understand what mental health challenges you may be facing. These tools are confidential; none of the results are stored on your account or sent anywhere.

Help in a time of crisis

If you are a Veteran in crisis or are concerned about one, VA is here for you. Free, confidential support from caring VA responders is available 24/7.

Call the Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255 and press 1, text to 838255 or chat online.

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David Carroll, Ph.D., is executive director of the Office of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention.