Make the Connection (www.maketheconnection.net) is a VA, public awareness campaign that provides personal testimonials and resources to help Veterans and their families and friends learn from each other’s experiences and discover ways to improve their lives. Join the Make the Connection Facebook community: www.facebook.com/VeteransMtC.

The Veterans Crisis Line connects Veterans in crisis and their families and friends with qualified, caring VA responders through a confidential toll-free hotline, online chat, or text. Veterans and their loved ones can call 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1, chat online at www.veteranscrisisline.net, or send a text message to 838255 to receive confidential support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

VA works with family members or friends who become aware of a Veteran’s postdeployment difficulties, and supports their efforts to find help for the Veteran. Coaching Into Care is a free and confidential coaching service to help callers discover new ways to talk with a Veteran about their concerns and treatment options. Callers can reach the service at 888-823-7458. More information can be found at www.mirecc.va.gov/coaching.

National Center for PTSD is VA’s center of excellence for research and education on the prevention, understanding, and treatment of PTSD. The mission of the National Center is to advance the clinical care and social welfare of America’s Veterans through research, education, and training in the science, diagnosis, and treatment of PTSD and stress-related disorders. More information can be found at www.ptsd.va.gov. 

For more information, visit the VA Mental Health website or the Vet Center website.