New VA Mental Health Services: What Every Veteran Should Know

The VA offers free mental health services to eligible veterans, regardless of discharge status or whether you’re enrolled in VA healthcare. If you’re struggling, help is available—and knowing your options is the first step.

Services Available to Veterans

VA provides comprehensive mental health support for conditions including PTSD, depression, anxiety, military sexual trauma (MST), substance use disorders, and readjustment issues. Last year, over 1.7 million veterans received mental health services at VA facilities.

How to Access Care

• Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988 and select 1, text 838255, or chat online—available 24/7
• Vet Centers: Walk-in or call during clinic hours for readjustment counseling
• VA Medical Centers: Emergency mental health care available anytime
• VA Health Line: 877-222-8387 (Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET)

Treatment Options

Veterans can choose from multiple evidence-based treatments including peer support groups, individual counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy, and medication management. The VA’s approach focuses on what works best for each individual veteran.

Disability Ratings for Mental Health

If a mental health condition is connected to your service, you may be eligible for disability compensation. VA rates mental health conditions from 0% to 100% based on how they affect your daily life and ability to work.

“Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Every veteran deserves support.”

For All Who Gave All can help connect you with local mental health resources and peer support in your community.