Hundreds of thousands of American heroes transition out of active duty each year, and many of them will face mental health challenges as they adjust to civilian life. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), “approximately 5.2 million Veterans experienced a behavioral health condition” in 2020, and many of those Veterans also reported challenges accessing treatment and support. If you are a Veteran or a friend or family member who cares, you might be wondering: Where do I even start? Here are some resources for Veterans and their loved ones experiencing mental health challenges or wanting to learn more about how to help.
When you’re in crisis, it can be tough to open up to the people who care most, let alone ask for help. This can be especially true for Veterans, who may feel obligated to stay strong and be there for others. The National Suicide & Crisis Hotline (988) has recognized that Veterans have unique mental health needs and have dedicated employees trained to respond to Veterans in crisis. For those not ready to talk, the Veteran crisis line is also accessible through text. This line is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and all calls are confidential. To reach the Veteran Crisis Line, dial the National Suicide & Crisis Line at 988 and choose 1 from the menu, or send a text to the number 838255.
If you are struggling with PTSD, the National Center for PTSD, a leading research and educational organization run by the Veterans Administration, offers a wealth of information and resources. Learn about symptoms and treatment options, get coping tips, or share with your friends and family members to help them better understand and support what you are going through. Whether you are just trying to get a grasp on your condition or seek help, this is an excellent resource.
The Veterans Administration offers a variety of mental health services designed to support recovery and help Veterans live meaningful lives. It’s also the best place to learn more about and access your VA benefits, including healthcare, education, training and other wraparound services that can contribute to mental health. The VA also offers several specialized mental health tools and resources for Veterans, including smartphone apps, telehealth options, and this online self-help portal where you can learn skills and strategies for overcoming everyday challenges.
Psych Armor is an educational resource for Veterans and those who love them, offering free and low-cost courses and certificate programs on a huge variety of topics, including suicide prevention, military culture, opioid use, brain health and more. This invaluable library of learning is perfect for Veterans or anyone seeking a better understanding of the military experience and how to support a Veteran at home.
At a peer-to-peer support group, you can find help and understanding from people who have been where you have been and are going through what you are going through, whether it be addiction, PTSD, or just the transition out of military life. It’s natural to be hesitant to walk into a group of strangers when you’re struggling with your mental health, but it’s important to remember that every member of a peer-to-peer support group had to find the courage to walk into the room for the first time, too. There are a huge variety of peer-to-peer support groups and many of them are available online, too. These groups offer a supportive and healing place where you can be reminded daily that you are not alone. To get started, check out SAMHSA’s list of national support groups here.
Finding resources to begin the journey to healing can be daunting, and that’s why Northwest Battle Buddies is committed to helping Veterans in any way we can. To learn more about Northwest Battle Buddies, our mission is to gift professionally trained service dogs to Veterans battling PTSD. Please, visit our website.