VA Mental Health Resources for Veterans: A Guide to Getting Support When You Need It Most

For veterans who’ve experienced the trauma of war, the weight of service, or the difficulty of returning to civilian life, mental health challenges are not uncommon. PTSD, depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders are widespread in the veteran community—and far too many veterans are left wondering where to turn for help. Fortunately, VA mental health resources for veterans offer a lifeline, connecting those who served with the care and support they need to heal.

At National Veterans Homeless Support (NVHS), we know that mental health is directly connected to housing stability, employment, and long-term well-being. Whether you’re a veteran in Central Florida or a family member trying to help, this guide will walk you through the mental health resources available through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and how to take the first step toward healing.

We are here to guide you through your options and connect you to trusted VA and community resources, starting with just one call.

If you or a loved one is struggling, call the VA Directly

• Main VA Hotline: Call 800-827-1000 for general information
• Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988 and press 1 or text 838255 (available 24/7)

The Critical Link Between Mental Health and a Veteran’s Stability

Many veterans carry invisible wounds from their time in service. Combat exposure, military sexual trauma, loss of comrades, and the stress of reintegration can all have long-lasting psychological effects. Left unaddressed, these struggles can interfere with work, relationships, and even housing—sometimes leading to homelessness.

Common mental health concerns among veterans include:

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Depression and suicidal thoughts
• Anxiety disorders
• Substance use and addiction
• Bipolar disorder
• Schizophrenia and other severe mental illnesses

The good news is that help is available. The VA offers a wide range of mental health services, many of them free, specifically for veterans and their families.

Who Is Eligible for VA Mental Health Services?

You don’t have to be receiving VA disability benefits or even enrolled in VA healthcare to access many mental health services.

Here are a few key eligibility notes:

• Combat Veterans: Eligible for free individual and group counseling at Vet Centers, even if they’re not enrolled in VA healthcare.
• Family Members: The immediate family of combat veterans may also receive support through Vet Centers.
• Caregivers: Family members caring for veterans can access free coaching, education, and mental health guidance through the VA’s Coaching Into Care program.
• Veterans in Crisis or Experiencing Homelessness: You can still access emergency or crisis-based care, even without an active VA file.

If you’re unsure whether you qualify, we can help connect you with the right VA or non-VA provider based on your needs. Get help today!

VA Mental Health Services That Help Veterans Heal

The VA offers robust support for mental and behavioral health, both through its hospitals and community-based programs like Vet Centers.

Here are some of the services you can access:

Counseling and Therapy

• Individual therapy
• Group therapy
• Family and couples counseling
• Counseling for military sexual trauma (MST)
• Grief and bereavement counseling
• Readjustment counseling (help for transitioning to civilian life)

Medical and Psychiatric Care

• Diagnosis and treatment for mental illnesses like PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety, and depression
• Medication management and psychiatric care
• Integrated care for veterans dealing with both physical and mental health concerns

Substance Use and Recovery Support

• Assessment and referral for substance abuse
• Detox and treatment programs
• Dual-diagnosis support for veterans with mental illness and addiction

Employment and Life Counseling

• Support finding and keeping employment
• Life skills and wellness coaching
• Peer support from other veterans

These services are available at VA Medical Centers, Vet Centers, and through Community-Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs) across the country—including in Florida.

How to Get Started

If you or someone you care about is having a hard time, taking that first step toward getting help can feel overwhelming. But you don’t have to do it alone—here’s how to begin your path to support and recovery:

Call the VA Directly

• Main VA Hotline: Call 800-827-1000 for general information
• Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988 and press 1 or text 838255 (available 24/7)

Visit a Local Vet Center

You can search for your nearest Vet Center at vetcenter.va.gov or reach out to NVHS for help locating and connecting to one. Vet Centers are known for being veteran-friendly, nonjudgmental, and flexible.

Talk to a VA Mental Health Provider

If you’re enrolled in VA healthcare, you can request an appointment with a mental health provider through your MyHealtheVet account or by calling your local VA Medical Center.

Connect Through NVHS

Are you unsure where to begin? You can start here. We’ll help assess your needs and walk you through your options, including non-VA community-based care if needed.

For Caregivers and Families: Support Is Available for You, Too

Caring for a veteran with mental health struggles can be overwhelming. The VA offers Coaching Into Care, a free service that helps family members talk to veterans about getting mental health treatment. 

You’ll speak with trained professionals who can help you navigate conversations, understand VA services, and care for yourself.

Many Vet Centers also provide family counseling services to spouses, partners, and children.

Getting Help in a Mental Health Crisis

Veteran mental health crises don’t always follow business hours. If you or someone you know is in danger, immediate help is available:

Veterans Crisis Line (24/7):

• Call 988 and press 1
• Text 838255
• Or visit veteranscrisisline.net

Emergency Help:

• If you are in immediate danger or fear for your safety, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

National Call Center for Homeless Veterans:

• If you are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, call 877-424-3838.
• You will be connected to your area’s VA housing and mental health services.

Local Support Through NVHS

While the VA provides a wide range of services, navigating the system can be challenging—especially for someone in crisis. 

That’s why National Veterans Homeless Support exists.

Our team works directly with veterans in Central Florida to:

• Provide one-on-one case management
• Offer mental health referrals
• Help access VA or community-based programs
• Deliver emergency aid and supplies
• Support long-term stability through housing programs

We meet veterans where they are. Whether they are staying in a car, living in the woods, or feeling overwhelmed and isolated, they are not alone. We are here to help guide them from survival to stability.

Want to Support Veteran Mental Health?

You don’t have to be a clinician to make a difference. At NVHS, we rely on our community to fund, support, and expand our outreach efforts.

Here’s how you can help:

• Donate to fund emergency supplies, outreach programs, and mental health support
• Volunteer to help with case management, events, or wellness activities
• Share this resource with a veteran or family member who might need it. (Facebook, LinkedIn, X, and YouTube) 

You Don’t Have to Walk This Road Alone

Mental health challenges can feel isolating—but support is available, and recovery is possible. Whether you’re just starting to struggle or have been carrying the weight for years, there’s no wrong time to ask for help.

At NVHS, we believe every veteran deserves to be seen, supported, and safe. Let us help you take that next step.