Every November since 1993 has been federally recognized as Military Family Appreciation Month. During this month, several military-themed holidays are celebrated. This period is a great opportunity to show your appreciation for both veterans and military families who have loved ones in the armed forces. If you know any of these people in your life or just want to anonymously help out with those you might not know, November is the perfect time to show them you recognize the uncommon challenges they go through.

Military families serve along with their loved servicemembers. They are aware of the risks involved in serving in the armed forces as well as the sacrifice of being away from them during long periods of training and deployment.

The history of Military Family Appreciation Month

In 1993, the Armed Services YMCA looked for a way to honor military families and recognize their sacrifice, dedication, and contributions to the armed forces which they’re an intrinsic part of. Thus, they came up with Military Family Appreciation Month as a time to do exactly that. After being officially endorsed by the President of the United States, November was chosen as the month in which the observation would take place.

What military-related holidays happen in November?

Several important holidays take place in November, and they’re perfect opportunities to plan out your shows of appreciation.

First is the Marine Corps’ Birthday on Nov. 10. This originated in 1921, when Marine Corps Order No. 47 was issued. This order intended to commemorate the founding of the Marine Corps and directed that it be repeated each year on the same day. This day is typically commemorated with the annual Marine Corps Birthday Ball. First held in 1925 and observed every year since, the ball includes entertainment, cake, and a formal dinner.

The celebration of the Marine Corps’ birthday has evolved over the years. In 1923, a formal dance was held at the Marine Barracks in Ft. Mifflin, Pennsylvania. Meanwhile, a mock battle occurred at the Washington Navy Yard, and a baseball game was held at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Later, in 1925, the first official Birthday Ball was held in Philadelphia. The cake-cutting ceremony began in 1952, which included the first piece of cake being presented to the oldest Marine present and being passed to the youngest as a symbol of the tradition passing.

After that is Veterans Day on Nov. 11. This day is especially important, as it is a federally-recognized holiday specifically meant as a day to pay respect to veterans. The day was originally known as Armistice Day to commemorate the end of World War I, but was later expanded to include all veterans.

Thanksgiving is also a part of Military Family Appreciation Month as one of the ideal times to give thanks to the people in our armed forces who have dedicated their lives to keeping America and its citizens safe from harm. Military families at the Thanksgiving table can use this opportunity to appreciate their loved servicemembers, while non-military families can take the time to show respect to both servicemembers and their families.

However you choose to recognize the holidays during Military Family Appreciation Month, it’s important to always give thanks both to servicemembers and their families so they know they’re loved and appreciated. In addition to the ever-important respect toward the members of the armed forces themselves, remember that the families of servicemembers have their own unique challenges to tackle every day and they deserve recognition just as much as their cherished servicemembers do.

With PTSD Awareness Day behind us – celebrated in June of each year – it's important to remember that the disorder is present year round for many active-duty military, veterans and first responders. Let's take a deeper dive into what PTSD is and some valuable resources to help alleviate the symptoms.

What is PTSD?

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), PTSD is "a disorder that develops in some people who have experienced a shocking, scary, or dangerous event." Symptoms can differ greatly from person to person and last for varying lengths of time. NIMH reports that someone can be diagnosed with the disorder if they exhibit all of these symptoms for at least one month:

• At least one re-experiencing symptom.
• At least one avoidance symptom.
• At least two arousal and reactivity symptoms.
• At least two cognition and mood symptoms.

How common is PTSD in Veterans?

While you may think that you do not know anyone who has been affected by PTSD, there is a chance that someone you know has been impacted by the disorder. In fact, 6% of the American population has been diagnosed with PTSD. According to the National Center for PTSD, about "12 million adults in the U.S. have PTSD during any given year."

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) reports that the number of those who have PTSD changes depending on the service era. Here are some of the most common examples:

Operations Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and Enduring Freedom (OEF)

The OIF era began in October 2001 and the OEF era began on March 20, 2003, mainly in response to the terrorist attacks that happened on September 11, 2001. The National Library of Medicine reported that 1.9 million U.S. military members served as a part of the response operation. The VA Department also states that about 20% of those who served in these operations had been diagnosed with PTSD within a year.

Gulf War (Desert Storm)

Operation Desert Storm was the second phase of the Gulf War, according to the US Navy's data. Again, the VA department reports that 12% of those who participated in the full two-year duration of the Gulf War will be diagnosed with PTSD as a result.

Vietnam War

One of the most well-known and deadly conflicts, the Vietnam War resulted in a high number of diagnoses for its veterans. The VA Department estimates that "about 30 out of every 100 (or 30%) of Vietnam Veterans have had PTSD in their lifetime."

Do first responders get PTSD?

Similar to active duty military members and veterans, first responders are routinely exposed to traumatic situations that could result in PTSD, among other mental health concerns. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reports that about 1 in 3 first responders are diagnosed with PTSD. This includes firefighters, EMTs, nurses and police officers. Due to their proximity to danger and death, the emotions and stress which they are exposed to often lead to the defined symptoms above and an active diagnosis of posttraumatic stress.

While there are many support services available within the career services sector of these professions, including mandatory therapies and time off, there are a high number of volunteer first responders who either don't quality for these services or who aren't required to attend. If you or a loved one is in a first responder profession, be sure to ask and be aware of the options available for leave of absence, time off, and therapeutic services, all of which can help catch early warning signs of the disorder and even lower the severity of symptoms. Check out the valuable resources below for more information.

Helpful resources

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of PTSD, there are hotlines available that can help you discover your best course of action. The impacts of PTSD can be serious and should not be taken lightly. Seek professional assistance and help remove the stigma by having an open conversation with those involved. Here are some of the best resources:

SAMHSA: Call 1-800-662-HELP

Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255, press 1

PTSD Foundation of America: Support groups

CopLine: (Law Enforcement Only): 1-800-267-5463

AllClear Foundation (all First Responders): Text BADGE to 741741 (crisis text line)

In the past two years, the housing market has seen record-high prices and record-low property inventory. The remainder of 2022 may bring a slight cooling in prices, but Reuters has found that inventory is likely to remain low in most American cities. Because of this, the current housing market will probably stay competitive.

For veterans, this can be discouraging when looking to buy a house in a seller's market. Luckily, this is where VA loans can make a big difference. Let's dive into the ins and outs of government-backed loans for veterans. Here is everything you need to know! 

What are VA loans?

VA loans are for current service members as well as veterans and their eligible spouses. A VA loan is a mortgage that is guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. It can be issued by a private lender of your choice. This loan option has been available since World War ll when the GI Bill of Rights created the VA home loan program in 1944.

VA loans are beneficial for many reasons, but there are extra benefits in today's highly competitive housing market.

What are the benefits of VA loans?

One of the main draws of a VA loan is that there is no down payment required in most cases. In 2022, the VA loan limit received a sizable increase, making it easier to get more out of a single loan. This year, the limit is $647,200 for most U.S. counties. As house prices remain high, this can help veterans and active service members find their ideal housing.

This loan type also requires no private mortgage insurance, even if the down payment is less than 20% of the original mortgage amount. Many other loans can be complicated to obtain because of this prerequisite. Veterans also have the opportunity to receive better rates and terms than with other mortgages.

How do VA loans work?

When it comes to finding the right loan for your needs, there is no one size fits all option. Luckily, there are several kinds of VA loans available for different types of circumstances. Here are some examples:

• Purchase loans.
• VA streamline refinance.
• VA cash-out refinance.

Within this, there are two categories of VA loans. They are VA direct loans and VA-backed loans. Here are the differences:

1. VA direct loans: These are loans that the borrower gets directly from the VA.
2. VA-backed loans: In this case, the loan is issued by a third party and backed by the VA.

There is only one VA direct loan, which is the Native American Direct Loan available for Native American veterans buying a home on federal trust land.

Eligibility

The current housing market has made it hard for prospective buyers to get their dream homes. VA loans are here to take care of those who have served the country by helping them obtain fair housing options, something that is extremely valuable in today's hot housing market. Here are some of the eligibility requirements for securing a VA loan:

• Must be an American veteran.
• Must be an active duty service member.
• Able to prove current or prior enlistment in the National Guard or Reserves.
• Must be a surviving spouse of a veteran who passed from service-related injuries.

Your bank or mortgage lender will be able to guide you through the process and ensure that you can prove eligibility.

On Monday, May 30, Americans across the country will pause to observe Memorial Day. To learn more about the histories and traditions related to the holiday, read our blog from 2021. Today, we will take a look at what events have returned and what new options there are for those who want to honor and memorialize the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives for this country. There are a lot of local traditions to participate in as well as national festivities.

Parades

Since 1971, Memorial Day has been celebrated on the last Monday in May. Parades have been a popular tradition and way to honor the occasion. However, due to recent years of COVID-19 restrictions, many local parades were put on pause in the name of public health and safety. For example, the annual Gilroy, CA parade was canceled last year; as their local newspaper puts it, "A holiday like Memorial Day should be a day to bring us together. Unfortunately, we can't safely gather together yet."

Now as Memorial Day 2022 fast approaches, three major cities are hosting parades to remember those who have served. Let's take a look at some of the most popular events happening this year:

• Chicago's Memorial Day Parade
• New York City's Memorial Day Parades – Brooklyn, Queens and Manhattan
• National Memorial Day Parade – Washington, D.C.

Visit the birthplace of Memorial Day

While there are many local events that memorialize those who have lost their lives in defense of the country, it may be worth it to take a family vacation to the birth of Memorial Day. In 1966, President Lyndon Johnson announced Waterloo, N.Y to be the birthplace of the holiday. The true origin of Memorial Day is debatable, with some arguing that the first true day of memory was 100 years earlier.

Waterloo itself claims that May 5, 1866, was the first day that businesses closed and the fall soldiers recognized with flags flying at half-mast. Not everyone agrees that this was the real first day, but the truth is that Americans have been honoring those who were lost protecting our freedoms.

Regardless, visiting some key sites can be a great way to learn more about the past and honor the fallen soldiers. You can visit other historic landmarks along the way to Waterloo, like Arlington National Cemetery. If you arrive at Waterloo, consider attending some of the Memorial Day events that the town holds.

Wreath Laying Ceremonies and Local Events

If traveling is not on your agenda, you can still participate in local events or even create your own! Many Veteran cemeteries encourage volunteers to help spring clean the area, or lay wreaths and flowers during the weekend of Memorial Day. Call your local town office to find out if there are any organized events your family might be able to lend a hand to. Or ask for permission to help lay flags or flowers where needed.

If your family is planning to attend a local ceremony or event, ask if they need last minute volunteer help. With responsibilities such as helping to place the flags, coordinating volunteers or attendees, and passing out supplies, the gift of helping is the ultimate thank you!

No matter how you choose to celebrate this weekend, stop and find a few moments to honor and thank those who sacrificed their lives to protect the United States of America and keep our great nation safe.

May is stroke awareness month, and we are taking a look into how strokes impact the military veterans of America. Regardless of age, many veterans are at a heightened risk for stroke and the impacts that come with it. When it comes to U.S. Veterans, about 15,000 of them suffer a stroke each year as a result of their service to the country. Let's go into further detail about why this is and other important resources related to stroke awareness.

How PTSD is connected with stokes

Multiple studies have found that PTSD is intrinsically linked with a person's risk of stroke. According to Reuters, one study found that "veterans with PTSD were 61% more likely than others to have a mini-stroke and 36% more likely to have a stroke." The study primarily focused on those who were a part of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars and who had no previous history of stroke incidents. 

The research also showed that, while age can be a factor in determining an individual's risk, there is a link between PTSD and strokes in young or middle-aged people. Strokes occur when a blood flow to the brain is disrupted by a clot or a rupture. Because blood vessels carry oxygen and other nutrients, the cells begin to die when it is blocked from those parts of the brain.

So how does PTSD relate to that? Traumatic stress that is sustained over a long period of time, such as in combat situations, can impact the overall functionality of the brain. While not every study suggests the same thing, many of them come to similar conclusions as to why PTSD increases the risk of stroke:

• Increased hypercoagulability: Hypercoagulability is the increased tendency to form blood clots within a blood vessel.
• Damaged Catecholamine and glucocorticoid production: These are hormones that the brain produces like epinephrine and dopamine. When these hormones are impacted, these impacts can lead to a higher risk of stroke: increased blood pressure, heightened platelet aggregation, vasoconstriction, cardiac arrhythmias, elevated heart rate and increased cardiac output.

Stroke awareness

PTSD is not the only reason why veterans are likely to be the victim of a stroke. Conditions such as brain damage received from active duty can also be contributing factors. The American Heart Association has found that "those who had a head injury were 69% more likely to have a stroke," even over the long term.  

Understanding that veterans are at a higher risk for stroke than their civilian counterparts can help increase awareness of the potential dangers. Stroke is the leading cause of death and disability across America, and awareness is just one piece of the puzzle and in creating prevention.

Stroke prevention

Aside from encouraging healthy lifestyle choices, there are a few things that a person can do in order to mitigate the damages of a stroke incident. There is even a helpful acronym that can help with stroke recognition and awareness:

• Face: A drooping side of the face is a key sign of a potential stroke.
• Arms: When both arms are raised above the head, does one fall lower than the other?
• Speech: Slurred speech is a red flag and a characteristic symptom of a stroke.
• Time: If you suspect a sign of stroke, call 9-1-1 right away because time is critical.

The U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs reports that about 6,000 Veterans per year are admitted to VA facilities with a stroke. If you are someone you know is at risk for a stroke, take the time to consult your physician and create a plan of prevention.

February is Black History Month and, while it is important to take note of history all year round, we're using this opportunity to share and honor Black veteran stories. This month, we're highlighting the inspiring story of Black American war veteran Roy M. Johnson, Sr. who fought bravely as a medic in the Korean War, Black Americans faced inequalities on the front lines and at home when they returned from war, despite their contributions to the country.

A story of bravery

Roy Johnson was born in 1922 in Lincolnton, GA. Just over 20 years later, he was drafted into the war in Europe where he served until it ended. His story is one of bravery, perseverance and service to the United States of America. 

By 1950, Sergeant Roy Johnson was a medic in the US Army. Like most active military members of the time, there came an opportunity for him to volunteer for a dangerous mission, where he would risk his life further to protect his country and his deep-held beliefs. Sergeant Roy accepted the mission and was sent to the frontlines of the Taejon area in Korea. There, his task was to get the wounded soldiers from the frontline and bring them back to the first aid station.

The backroads of the countryside were notoriously confusing and difficult to navigate, and Sergeant Johnson's journey to the Taejon area was no exception. At a crossroads, his path intersected that of several enemy tanks that had somehow broken through American lines. He came under unexpected enemy fire, especially because his vehicle was marked with the Red Cross symbol. His traveling companion was killed in the onslaught and Sergeant Johnson's hand became badly wounded (later it would be completely amputated).

Sergeant Johnson fell off the vehicle and while laying on the ground, was subsequently shot three times in the back. An hour after this conflict, when the enemy was gone, he climbed onto another medical vehicle and drove himself to find his comrades. Badly wounded, he lost consciousness immediately.

Not yet completely safe, the field hospital where he was taken to be cared for fell under enemy machine gunfire. Escaping the enemy once again before the hospital was taken by the North Koreans, Sergeant Johnson was sent first to Japan and then to Walter Reed Medical Center. Not only is this the hospital where his hand was amputated — it's where he met Sergeant Alfonzo Spencer (the father of current AFBA President, General Larry Spencer). The two would become deep friends for the rest of their lives.

Before being discharged from the army in 1958, Sergeant spent another eight years at Bethesda Naval Hospital  where he was an Occupational Therapy Technician who trained other war amputees on how to use their new prosthetics effectively. Along with his honorable memory of service, Sergeant Johnson lives in Maryland today with his children. 

To learn more about this inspiring Korean War Veteran, check out our YouTube channel.

February 4th is the official creation day for the United Service Organizations (USO). The USO has been a fixture in military life for over 80 years. Let's dive into the history of the USO and how it impacts the modern military. According to their website, "Since 1941, the USO has been the nation's leading organization to serve the men and women in the U.S. military, and their families, throughout their time in uniform. From the moment they join, through their assignments and deployments, and as they transition back to their communities, the USO is always by their side."

An organization with a history

The organization was founded in 1941 and is private and not-for-profit. It also works with the Department of Defense (DOD). The organization was first formed in WWll to boost the morale of the troops and to encourage American citizen involvement in the war effort. President Franklin D. Roosevelt's goal was to foster more support for the men fighting overseas, which was much needed at the time. In fact, several preexisting organizations and associations were combined to create the USO. They were: 

• The Salvation Army.
• The Young Men's Christian Association.
• The Young Women's Christian Association.
• The National Catholic Community Services.
• The National Travelers Aid Association.
• The National Jewish Welfare Board.

Most notably, the USO provided live entertainment to the troops and their families, which included comedians, actors and musicians. In addition, they also created social facilities for those in need, which they still actively do. Though they were disbanded between the end of WWll and the beginning of the Korean War, the USO was revived for the latter war and continued through the entirety of the Korean War, the Vietnam War, Lebanese peacekeeping, Gulf War, Afghanistan and the Iraq war.

The USO today

Today, USO still provides important resources to those who are members of the military community. They have over 200 locations in 14 countries and 27 US states. The USO has over 250 centers that "extend to countries on every continent, operated by thousands of staff and volunteers whose goals are to match our service members' vigilance and provide best-in-class service to those who sacrifice so much for America," according to their website.

Services provided

The USO is a service that is provided to troops both while they are deployed and after deployment. They are also available for military families. Here is a short list of just some of the services offered:

• Operation Phone Home: The project offers military members internet connections and potential phones. 2.8 million minutes of free talk time and 760,000 wifi sessions were logged by service members connecting with their families in 2019.
• USO Care Package Program: You or someone you know can send a care package to the troops overseas.
• Entertainment: USO has provided more than 8.1 million center celebrity visits across the world.
• Transitioning Service Members and Military Spouses: The organization offers support and services to those who are transitioning to a new point in their service.

The USO has been around for over 80 years to provide different kinds of support to the military as a private, non-government entity. On February 4th, 2022 consider donating in celebration of the organization's birthday.

It's that time of year again! It's the season where you brainstorm the best holiday presents for the loved ones on your list, which can be tricky. You want to get them something they will love from a place that you don't mind supporting. This holiday season, consider buying something special from a veteran-run business. Not only are you sure to find something unique, but you will also be giving your money to a company that is owned by an American veteran. Here is our 2021 veteran-owned holiday shopping guide.

Black Rifle Coffee Company

This veteran-owned company is very popular and well known for its delicious blends of coffee. You can also purchase apparel, coffee bundles,  mugs, cups, tumblers and so much more. They roast their coffee beans five days a week in their Manchester, TN and Salt Lake City, UT locations. When you buy one of Black Rifle Coffee Company's products, you support the veteran founders and contribute to their philanthropic endeavors. According to their website, they focus on, "serving this great country and are committed to supporting veterans, law enforcement, and first responders."

R. Riveter

This company is owned by the wives of two veterans, so when you shop on their website, you are supporting a veteran family. R. Riveter is co-owned by military spouses Lisa Bradley and Cameron Cruse and there are plenty of well-designed, gorgeous bags and purses to choose from. According to the website, the different "parts and pieces (of the bags) are made remotely across the country to provide military spouses with mobile, flexible income opportunities."

R. Riveter supports active-duty and veteran families so you know that your hard-earned money is going to a good cause. Not only that, but you will receive the perfect gift for that patriotic man or woman on your list. Be sure to check out their website for their 12 Days of Holideals for a bargain!

Stubble + 'Stache

The founder and owner Nick Karnaze served over seven years as an officer in the United States Marine Corps and is now a veteran. Nick created this beard and skincare company in remembrance of the combat death of his good friend and fellow special operations Marine Justin Hansen. Stubble + 'Stache has superior formulas and special ingredients as well as many different product options for the bearded man in your life.

Bottle Breacher

Former Navy SEAL, Eli Crane created Bottle Breacher to provide a one-stop shop for anyone shopping for an American patriot. The online store offers hand-crafted, "personalized man-gifts" but they also have a great selection of holiday presents and stocking stuffers for every patriotic person on your gift list. Their hero product is a .50 caliber shell that has been crafted into a bottle opener. Bottle Breacher has the option to add customized engraving and personalized gift wrapping.

These are all great options for a potential holiday gift and would support American veterans in their post-service entrepreneurial efforts. If you are a veteran or someone you know is, be sure to urge them to check out the Small Business Association funding for veteran-owned small businesses. This year, consider buying from a veteran and offer your patronage as a token of appreciation for their sacrifices.

American military veterans are heroes for the work they do overseas and on the home front. Once they return to civilian life, this work shifts to their own home as parents and caregivers. Nearly 50% of veterans live in a household with children, making the need for reliable childcare a critical and important step to a well-adjusted and successful family life.

Let's first dive into the average childcare expenses to prepare for, as well as the top veteran-specific options for high-quality care and a few budget tips to further ease the financial expense.

The cost of childcare in America

Regardless of whether you are a veteran, childcare in America is expensive. According to a survey conducted by YouGov on behalf of Bankrate, most people pay an average of $8,355 per child for all-year care. This comes down to about "$750 per child per month during the school year and an average of $834 for summer child care." Cutting costs with a cheaper choice is an option, and some veterans may ask family members to watch their children, but high-quality and reliable childcare is valuable no matter who provides it.

Even with subsidized and other government benefits, childcare can eat up a large portion of a family budget. Most public funding comes from the federal Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF), authorized by the Child Care Development Block Grant Act, or CCDBG.4, but there are some private childcare providers that offer discounted childcare for veterans as well.

Top veteran options for childcare

Below are some of the best childcare options, government-funded and otherwise, for veterans:

• The Office of Human Resources Management VA Child Care Subsidy Program: This is a childcare option provided by the U.S. Office of Veteran Affairs, where veterans are given a subsidy to put toward the cost of childcare. To see childcare centers local to your area, check out this interactive map feature which includes the name and address of places that are supported through the VA program.
• Financial assistance from Child Care Aware: Child Care Aware is a program that, according to their website, "serves more than 10,000 military children every year." Families from every branch of the military are supported through this fee assistance program, whether in an active-duty service member or veteran role.
• Ask if there are veteran discounts: Many childcare businesses and establishments that aren't associated with a federal agency want to show their support and gratitude to veterans through discounts, but many of them don't actively advertise these benefits. In some cases, savings can even apply to spouses of veterans. Never be afraid to ask if there are discounts available to your military family.

Additional tips and other options

If there are no VA-sponsored programs available in your area, try looking for a federal center within your state of residence. This additional resource page on the GSA.gov website can match you with a nearby option based on your region.

When seeking childcare coverage, start early. Childcare centers and in-home care providers often have a waitlist, and program approval processes can take a while to complete. Spend some time planning ahead and mapping out your needs so you can weigh these various options and utilize them if you qualify.

Childcare is one of the most important things to any parent, but the financial stress that it can add to the life of a veteran can be mitigated by using the above tips. The options are out there, and more Americans than you might think are working to support veterans and their families.

Childcare can be expensive and time-consuming for anyone, but the American Heroes that are veterans may have some options to alleviate some of that stress.

 

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255

Suicide is a concern no matter what community you are a part of, but it has a unique impact on first responders, military veterans and active-duty service members. Rates of suicide are especially high among veterans and those who are serving on active duty, due to the circumstances that members of the military are put in.

With serious contributing factors like trauma, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, stress and anxiety, suicide has always been a major issue for these groups. However, DoD has reported some of the highest suicide rates during the past four years in particular. In 2019, the rate of suicide among active-duty troops was 25.9 per 100,000 troops, and it has been steadily climbing.

Here are some suicide prevention resources for veterans, active-duty troops, and their families.

Resources for active-duty troops

Military Crisis Line: 800-273-8255

Active-duty troops face situations and circumstances everyday that not only take a physical toll, but that can have long term mental effects as well. Here are some hotlines and programs that can help to address thoughts of self harm and suicidal ideation.

Overseas crisis assistance

• Europe: Call 00800 1273 8255 or DSN 118
• Korea: Call 0808 555 118 or DSN 118
• Afghanistan: Call 00 1 800 273 8255 or DSN 111
• International crisis chat: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/get-help/chat

Government provided assistance

Military OneSource provides free and confidential therapy for troops and military families. Whether you or someone you know is struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD or adjusting to a new life, Military OneSource is here to help.

• Call: 800-342-9647
• Live chat option
• Schedule an online consultation

Resources for veterans

Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255

Active duty and military service can leave a lasting impact on veterans. Even years after their service, members of the military face mental health struggles. Preventative action through therapy, medication or even self help is important. Use these resources yourself or send them to a veteran who may find them useful.

• Make the Connection: This website has everything from additional resources to ways to connect with other veterans near you who may understand what you’re going through.
• Coaching Into Care: This is a government-based national telephone service for veterans that provides free coaching from licensed psychologists and social workers. You can also call 888-823-7458 for support.
• Military and Veterans Caregiver Network: Provided by the American Red Cross, this is a community based program that focuses on “peers engaged to exchange experience, empathy, education and encouragement.”

Resources for military families and first responders

Whether you are the loved one of an active-duty troop or a veteran, your mental health can face challenges as well. If you have lost someone to active duty or suicide, its important to seek community. Tragically, suicide is also prevalent among military families.

• Suicide Bereavement for Veterans and Military Families
• Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors
• Crisis center for first responders
• Psychological Health Resource Center

It’s important that our first responders and veterans feel supported and that they know that there are resources out there. This list of resources are relevant all year around, not just during Suicide Prevention Week. The DoD has more resources that focus on mental health for the military, veterans and their families.