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Mental Health & Counseling Guide

Expert guidance for finding therapy, understanding treatments, and managing PTSD and emotional distress

In Crisis?

If you're experiencing suicidal thoughts or a mental health crisis, help is available immediately:

Veterans Crisis Line: 988 then 1 (24/7)
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
Emergency: Call 911 or go to nearest ER
🔍Finding Therapy💊Treatment Options🛡️PTSD Management📋Key Resources

Finding Therapy

Several therapy options are available to veterans:

VA Mental Health Services

The VA offers comprehensive mental health services including:

  • Individual therapy (1-on-1 sessions)
  • Group therapy and support groups
  • Psychiatric evaluation and medication management
  • Residential treatment programs for intensive care
  • Telehealth options for remote veterans

Contact: Call 1-877-222-VETS (8387) or visit VA.gov

Community Mental Health Services

Non-VA providers specializing in veteran care:

  • NAMI Peer-to-Peer Support Programs
  • Local community mental health centers
  • Private therapists (insurance often covers veteran care)
  • Faith-based counseling services

Evidence-Based Treatments

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Focuses on changing negative thought patterns. Proven effective for PTSD, anxiety, and depression.

Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)

Specialized for trauma and PTSD. Combines CBT with exposure therapy.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

Uses eye movements while processing traumatic memories. FDA-approved for PTSD.

Prolonged Exposure (PE)

Gradually faces trauma-related memories and situations to reduce avoidance.

Medication Management

SSRIs and other medications can help manage symptoms of depression and anxiety.

PTSD Management Strategies

Immediate Coping Techniques

4-7-8 Breathing: Breathe in for 4 counts, hold for 7, exhale for 8. Calms nervous system.
Box Breathing: Breathe in for 4, hold for 4, exhale for 4, hold for 4. Grounding technique.
5 Senses Grounding: Notice 5 things you see, 4 you hear, 3 you touch, 2 you smell, 1 you taste.

Lifestyle Changes

  • Regular exercise (proven to reduce PTSD symptoms)
  • Sleep hygiene and consistent schedule
  • Avoid alcohol and substances
  • Maintain social connections
  • Peer support groups

Key Resources & Hotlines

Veterans Crisis Line

988 + 1

24/7

VA Mental Health Services

1-877-222-8387

24/7

Crisis Text Line

Text HOME to 741741

24/7

National Suicide Prevention Line

988

24/7

Your Next Steps

  1. Reach out to the VA or a local mental health provider
  2. Describe your symptoms honestly
  3. Ask about evidence-based treatments (CBT, TF-CBT, EMDR)
  4. Commit to regular appointments
  5. Try coping techniques daily
  6. Connect with peer support groups
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