From U.S.VETS
Twenty years ago, after the devastation of 9/11, America deployed the largest military force in its history. Many of our brothers and sisters volunteered without hesitation and fought courageously for the freedoms of others.
Their service and commitment to our country mattered tremendously to the people in the regions they served and to all of us here at home. That’s why the recent news stories and photos coming from Afghanistan have been especially heartbreaking.
These most recent events have had an emotional impact on many of us, especially those who served, our military spouses, family members and allies. Please know that you are not alone. Many of your friends and colleagues who are veterans know what you’re going through. Talk to your family, connect with a veteran support group, or call a counselor. They are all willing to listen.
Here’s a list of resources available to you right now. Please feel free to reach out to as many as you need:
- U.S.VETS Counseling Services: Contact Women Vets on Point or Outside The Wire for resources and support for women and student veterans.
- Veterans Crisis Line –If you are having thoughts of suicide, call 988, then PRESS 1 or visit veteranscrisisline.net
- For emergency mental health care, you can also go directly to your local VA medical center 24/7 regardless of your discharge status or enrollment in other VA health care.
- VA Mental Health Services Guide– This guide will help you sign up and access mental health services.
- RallyPoint – Talk to other veterans online. Discuss: What are your feelings as the Taliban reclaim Afghanistan after 20 years of US involvement?
- Download VA’s self-help apps – Tools to help deal with common reactions like, stress, sadness, and anxiety. You can also track your symptoms over time.
- Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) – Request a Peer Mentor
- VA Women Veterans Call Center– Call or text 1-855-829-6636 (M-F 8AM-10PM & SAT 8AM-6:30PM ET)
- VA Caregiver Support Line – Call 1-855-260-3274 (M-F 8AM-10PM & SAT 8AM-5PM ET)
Stay healthy and well,
Stephen Peck, MSW
USMC ’68-’71
President & CEO, U.S.VETS