To all our Veterans out there, remember, you are not alone. Many of us have dealt with issues ourselves, and while we may not specifically understand exactly what you are going through or how you feel, we care about you as a fellow Veteran and want to make sure you get help. Things may seem impossible at the moment, but things will change and usually for the better.
People can experience an emotional or mental health crisis due to a wide range of situations. For some, it might be the end of a personal relationship. For others, it might be the loss of a job. For Veterans, these crises can be heightened by their experiences during military service.
When emotional issues reach a crisis point, Veterans and their loved ones should contact the Veterans Crisis Line. Many Veterans may not show any signs of intent to harm themselves before doing so, but some actions can be a sign that a person needs help. Veterans in crisis may show behaviors that indicate a risk of self-harm. To learn more about the warning signs, visit the Veterans Crisis Line website.
The Military Crisis Line, text-messaging service, and online chat provide free VA support for all Service members, including members of the National Guard and Reserve, and all Veterans, even if they are not registered with VA or enrolled in VA health care. The Military Crisis Line is staffed by caring, qualified responders from VA. Many are Veterans themselves. They understand what Service members have been through and the challenges that members of the military and their loved ones face.