Key Takeaways
Veterans who experiencemilitary traumaoften come home with invisible wounds.
While many can recover with support, others may need additional assistance to feel better.
Veterans and advocates are fighting for a better system and building communities to help address these problems.
If you or someone you know is in crisis or having thoughts of suicide, seek help immediately.
To contact theVeterans Crisis Line, call 988 and press 1, text 838255, or start aconfidential chat.
If you have hearing loss, call TTY 800-799-4889.
After active service ends, it can be difficult to adjust to civilian life.
Sometimes its hard to find the same sense of meaning when youre out of uniform.
Other times, the challenges veterans face are more concrete, says Dr. Riggs.
To reach theVeterans Crisis Line, dial 988, then press 1, text 838255, oropen a chat.
For treatment outside of the VA, use SAMHSAstreatment locatoror call 800-662-HELP (4357).
Your mental health is essential to help you function optimally and reach your highest potential.
Types of Treatment
When youre ready, many effective, evidence-based treatment options are available.
Talking to other veterans about how they manage to step out more often can help you move forward too.
In response, many service personnel can seek mental health care without consequence to their career.
You canfind mental health servicesthrough the military or participating civilian providers with TRICARE health insurance.
If youre moving between healthcare providers or locations, contactInTransitionto review your options.
Many nonprofit organizations offer free mental health care near military bases.
Acierno advises contacting veterans service agencies in your area, like theWounded Warrior Project, to find community providers.
Wherever you could obtain it, find professional support.
Its important to research your options and think about the pros and cons of each.
If you qualify for care through the VA, Acierno recommends it.
Their care is tailored to veterans.
To learn more about your options, call or walk into the closest VA health facility.Find yours here.
Managing Your Lifestyle to Support Mental Wellness
Seeking support and getting a treatment plan is step one.
Here are a few ways to maintain your strength.
Find Veteran-Friendly Health Services
Prioritize your overall well-being by finding local health services for veterans.
Use the VAsMy HealtheVetto access your health records, find providers, and track progress in a health journal.
Reconnect
Compared with the general population, veterans report feeling more socially isolated.
To regain a sense of community and maintain ties with your tribe, contact veterans or veterans groups.
Talk About Your Experiences
Talk to your loved ones about what youre going through.
Taking care of the basics can help support you in your recovery and reduce the risk of worsening symptoms.
Rather than demanding they get help, he says, describe what youre noticing and express your support.
You could say: You dont seem to be happy lately.
Do you need someone to talk to?
or Have you thought about using the VA benefits you have?
Call 888-823-7458 to chat with an advocate or find tips on how to start the conversationhere.
In the meantime, serve as a model by taking care of yourself.
For support, ping the VA Caregiver Support Program at 855-260-3274 orlearn more online.
The Bottom Line
A rising number of military members and veterans need support for their mental health.
Many resources are available, but its essential to combat stigma and create clear pathways to care.
The passage of time and community can help heal some wounds.
But in many cases, counseling or therapy is also essential for recovery.
