If you are in crisis, please call 1-800-273-8255 and press 1, or visit VeteransCrisisLine.net

About VA

A brief overview that allows those who are unfamiliar with VA to learn about available benefits and services, with an emphasis on mental health and suicide prevention services.

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Download the "About the VA" Fact Sheet

Use this brief fact sheet to learn about the benefits and services that VA offers.

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VA Suicide Prevention Efforts

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has built the Nation’s largest, most comprehensive Veteran-focused suicide prevention program. As the leaders of this integrated effort, VA’s Suicide Prevention Coordinators (SPCs) connect Veterans and their families with services and support across VA, including: VA Medical Centers (VAMCs), Vet Centers, and community-based outpatient clinics.

VA Suicide Prevention Coordinators

Nationwide, more than 300 SPCs work closely with Veterans to help them get the support they need to address life’s challenges. In addition to case management work with Veterans, SPCs are the “boots on the ground” for VA’s suicide prevention education initiatives — providing ongoing training to all VAMC clinicians and staff and promoting awareness of suicide risk and prevention through community outreach events. Veterans can contact their local VAMC using the VA Resource Locator to schedule an appointment with an SPC near them.

VA Resource Locator

VA’s Resource Locator helps Veterans and their families connect with local treatment centers, SPCs, and other programs in their communities for customized support. Access the Resource Locator.

Additional Resources

VA Crisis Support

In times of crisis, VA connects Veterans, as well as their families and friends, with immediate support through the Veterans Crisis Line. The Veterans Crisis Line is a free and confidential phone, online chat, and text-messaging service staffed by qualified VA responders — some of whom are Veterans themselves. The Veterans Crisis Line is available to all Veterans, even if they are not registered with VA or enrolled in VA health care. 

Veterans Crisis Line responders are standing by 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Call 1-800-273-8255 and press 1, chat online at VeteransCrisisLine.net, or text to 838255 to receive immediate support from a caring person who is there to help.

Individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing can connect to the Veterans Crisis Line through the TTY service by calling 1-800-799-4889.

Assistance is only a phone call, click, or text away.

VA Mental Health Resources

VA’s suicide prevention program combines high-quality mental health support and services with programs designed to help Veterans and their families connect with VA and community resources. Examples of VA mental health initiatives include:

  • Make the Connection encourages Veterans and their families and friends to explore topics including health, wellness, and common life challenges and to watch videos of Veterans talking openly about their personal experiences with mental health treatment and recovery — all of which are featured on this one-stop website
  • VA.gov features mental health information, resources, and services available to Veterans, Service members, and their families
  • VA’s Community Provider Toolkit features trainings, resources, and information to support the mental health services you provide to Veterans. You can find information on connecting with VA and on understanding military culture and experience, as well as tools for working with a variety of mental health conditions (found under Behavioral Health & Wellness)
  • Coaching into Care provides guidance to families and friends of Veterans on how to talk to the Veterans in their lives about seeking help for mental health and substance abuse challenges
  • Vet Centers around the country provide Veterans with the opportunity to speak with a therapist — many of whom are Veterans themselves — for free, without an appointment. Regardless of a Veteran’s enrollment status with VA, Veterans can receive same-day support at their local Vet Center with proof of combat service or a DD214. In addition, any Veteran who has experienced military sexual trauma is eligible to receive counseling regardless of gender or era of service
  • VA Caregiver Support features resources for family caregivers. Call VA’s Caregiver Support Line at 1-855-260-3274 to learn more about how VA’s trained professionals can help caregivers find the services and support that are right for them and the Veterans they care for

Explore VA

Explore VA offers a fast and easy way for Veterans and their families to learn about programs they may be eligible for. VA benefits and services help Veterans take care of family members, buy a home, earn a degree, start a career, stay healthy, and do so much more.