PTSD: VA Programs & Services - Mental Health
PTSD
Take the Next Step
Now that you’ve learned about PTSD and available treatment options, take the next step. Explore the following resources and connected care options to get started at VA.
Programs & Services
VA is here to provide world-class care for Veterans, and mental health is a critical part of that care. The following programs and services can help you find your path to recovery:
AboutFace
Produced by VA’s National Center for PTSD, AboutFace features the real stories of Veterans who have experienced PTSD, and their family members and VA clinicians. By watching the videos on AboutFace, you can learn about PTSD, explore treatment options, and get advice from others who have been there.
National Center for PTSD
This website provides information, resources, and practical advice for Veterans, their family members and friends, and the public when dealing with trauma.
VA’s PTSD Program Locator
All VAMCs offer PTSD treatment. This locator will help you find PTSD treatment programs that may be available at facilities near your home.
Vet Centers
Vet Centers are small, non-medical counseling centers conveniently located in your community. If you are a Veteran or service member including members of the National Guard and Reserve, you may be eligible to receive individual and group counseling at no cost to you and your family. You can access these services even if you’re not enrolled in VA health care or have a service connection.
Self-Help
The road to recovery can start with you. The following resources and apps were developed to provide direct support to both you and people in your support system.
Online Resources
- AboutFace: Learn from Veterans how PTSD treatment can turn your life around.
- PTSD Treatment Decision Aid: Wondering what treatment is the right fit for you? This online tool helps you learn about and compare effective treatments.
- MakeTheConnection.net: View hundreds of stories from Veterans of all service eras who have overcome mental health challenges, including PTSD.
Self-Help Mobile Apps
VA and the Department of Defense have designed the following mobile apps specifically to support Veterans in self-managing their mental health conditions. These apps can be used independently or alongside therapy and/or other mental health treatment.
VetChange
This mobile app is for Veterans and Service members who are concerned about their drinking and how it relates to posttraumatic stress, as well as anyone else who wants to develop healthier drinking behaviors.
Mindfulness Coach
This app will help you ground yourself in the present moment, a technique that can help you cope better with unpleasant thoughts and emotions.
Resources
VA and Veterans Service Organizations have developed several resources to provide support, connect you with care, and relieve the symptoms of PTSD in your life.
Help for Veterans’ Family Members and Friends
Learn about resources to help you take care of yourself while supporting someone with PTSD.
Understanding PTSD and PTSD Treatment
This 16-page booklet explains the causes and symptoms of PTSD as well as ways to effectively treat it. En Espanol
Understanding PTSD: A Guide for Family and Friends
This online guide helps family members and friends of people with PTSD understand the disorder. It also provides information on self-care and on encouraging loved ones to get treatment. En Espanol
Wounded Warrior Project: Warrior Care Network
This collaboration between Wounded Warrior Project and its academic medical partners connects Veterans living with PTSD, traumatic brain injury, and other related conditions to clinical services.