Veterans have historically experienced higher rates of suicide, and as people with physical disabilities experience mental health issues at higher rates than nondisabled individuals, disabled veterans are at an intersection of heightened risk. But statistics don’t tell the full story –– suicide is preventable, and having access to the right resources can make a world of difference.
Here are some organizations that are addressing the mental health of veterans and service members:
- Boulder Crest Foundation – offers various programs for veterans and their families to cultivate healing and growth post traumatic experiences. Runs the Warrior PATHH program (Progressive and Alternative Training for Helping Heroes).
- National Alliance on Mental Illness – Veterans & Active Duty
- Paralyzed Veterans of America – helps paralyzed and disabled veterans regain their independence after injury or diagnosis. Advocates for quality health care for disabled veterans, research and education addressing spinal cord injury, benefits available in relation to military service, and the civil rights of people with disabilities.
- Semper Fi & America’s Fund – provides one on one case management, connection, and lifetime support for wounded and ill veterans, service members, and their families. Works to cultivate healing and growth post traumatic experiences.
- Travis Mills Foundation – supports recalibrated veterans and their families overcome physical and emotional obstacles, strengthen their families, and provide well-deserved rest and relaxation at their retreat center in Maine. Runs the Warrior PATHH program (Progressive and Alternative Training for Helping Heroes).
- Veterans Crisis Line – 24/7, confidential crisis support for veterans and their loved ones. Available to anyone, whether enrolled in VA benefits or not.
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- Dial 988 and press 1
- Or text 838255
- Can also chat online
- Veterans & Athletes United – provides support to disabled veterans and their family members through accessible retreats and adaptive sports/recreation.
- Wounded Warrior Project – supports wounded service members in their transition to civilian life though mental health programs, career counseling, long-term rehabilitative care, and advocacy efforts.
- Warrior’s Heart – Addiction and PTSD Treatment Center – provides private treatment programs for veterans and service members seeking relief from substance abuse, chemical dependencies, and various psychological conditions. Treats co-occurring psychological disorders such as PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), MTBI (mild traumatic brain injury), and others.