Mental Health Care Is a Benefit You Earned
Mental health is just as important as physical health, and the VA provides extensive, free mental health services to eligible veterans. If you've been struggling and haven't reached out, this guide is for you.
What the VA Covers
The VA provides free mental health services including:
- Individual therapy — one-on-one sessions with a licensed counselor
- Group therapy — peer support in a structured setting
- Medication management — psychiatrists who can prescribe and monitor medications
- PTSD treatment programs — specialized inpatient and outpatient programs
- Substance use disorder treatment
- Suicide prevention services
- Telehealth/virtual appointments — care from home
How to Get Started
Step 1: Enroll in VA Health Care
Go to VA.gov/health-care/apply or call 1-877-222-8387.
Step 2: Contact Your Local VA Medical Center
Find your nearest facility at VA.gov/find-locations. You can call directly and ask to schedule a mental health intake appointment.
Step 3: Same-Day Mental Health Services
If you're in crisis or need to be seen urgently, VA medical centers are required to offer same-day mental health services. You don't need an appointment.
Vet Centers
Vet Centers are community-based counseling centers that offer readjustment counseling for combat veterans — completely separate from the VA medical system. They're often easier to access and more flexible.
Find a Vet Center: VA.gov/find-locations (select "Vet Center")
Veterans Crisis Line
If you're in crisis right now:
- Call: 988, then press 1
- Text: 838255
- Chat: VeteransCrisisLine.net
You don't have to be enrolled in VA care to use the Crisis Line.
You Are Not Alone
Seeking help is not weakness — it is mission-critical. Thousands of veterans across the country are getting the support they need and rebuilding their lives. You deserve the same.