Help for Veterans

• Delinquency and assistance for housing loans
  • • Veterans at risk of becoming homeless can always call or visit their local VA medical center or Community Resource and Referral Center for assistance.
    • Learn more about VA resources and other housing assistance programs.
  • Veteran homelessness
    • The VA, in collaboration with other government offices and partners, offers programs such as Supportive Housing, Homeless Provider Grants, Enhanced-Used Leases and Acquired Property Sales for Homeless Providers.
    • Explore va.gov/homeless to learn more about the fight against veteran homelessness.

Veterans have several options for confidential non-medical counseling.

• To receive non-medical counseling from Military OneSource as a veteran, you must be within 365 days of separation from the military.
• The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers the Vet Center Program, which provides quality readjustment counseling. If you have served in any combat zone, you and your family are eligible. Vet Centers can be found all across the U.S.

People who live through a traumatic event sometimes suffer its effects long after the moment has passed. Several factors play a role in developing post-traumatic stress disorder, so there is no way to know who will or won’t experience it. The good news is that help is available, and early treatment may help reduce long-term symptoms.

• • • • Read about the risk factors and what to look for.
      • Visit the VA’s National Center for PTSD for access to online coaching and mobile apps.
      • Head to VA.gov for information on how to speak with someone immediately if you’re in a crisis.
      • Find your nearest VA hospital or clinic through the Veterans Health Administration.

If you’re having suicidal thoughts or are concerned about a loved one who is having them, don’t hesitate. Have a confidential talk with a professional who can help.

• The Veterans Crisis Line is always open. Call or chat online 24/7 for free. Speak to qualified Department of Veterans Affairs responders who understand the challenges of military life. Many are veterans themselves. Since its launch in 2007, Veterans Crisis Line staff have responded to about 2.4 million callers and engaged in nearly 294,000 chats.
• The Defense Suicide Prevention Office is committed to developing suicide prevention efforts among all stakeholders in the military services. From best practices to resources for family and friends, help is available.

While anyone can be at risk of alcohol and substance abuse, there are several aspects of military life that can trigger it. Understand the signs of a substance abuse problem.

• If you find yourself repeatedly engaging in activities that have a negative impact on your life, you might be engaging in addictive behavior. Learn more about the signs.
  • You can also find support through Alcoholics Anonymous and similar programs. To find a program near you, call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s National Helpline at 800-662-4357 or find treatment centers online.
  • The VA provides effective treatment services for all eligible veterans. Options include therapy as well as medications in some cases. To get help, speak with your existing VA health care provider or call 800-827-1000.
• The Defense Department provides the following campaigns, aligned with the Defense Health Agency, to educate service members about various types of addiction:
  • YouCanQuit2 provides resources and support to quit tobacco.
  • Own Your Limits provides information to help service members learn how to drink responsibly, if they choose to drink alcohol.
  • Too Much To Lose informs service members on the facts and risks related to prescription drug misuse and the use of illicit and prohibited drugs.