Peer Support & Community Guide
Connect with other veterans, join support groups, and build meaningful community
Support Groups
VA-Hosted Groups
Free groups at every VA Medical Center covering:
- PTSD support groups
- Combat trauma processing
- Readjustment & reintegration
- Substance use recovery
- Women veterans groups
Online Communities
- Reddit r/Veterans - 500K+ members, moderated
- Facebook Veteran Groups - topic-specific communities
- Bumble BFF Veterans - friendship connections
- LinkedIn Veterans Network - professional connections
Major Veteran Organizations
American Legion
Post in nearly every town, community service, benefits counseling
Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)
Social clubs, benefits advocacy, community programs
DAV (Disabled American Veterans)
Specialized support for disabled vets
Wounded Warrior Project
Mental health programs and community events
Team Red White & Blue
Fitness and wellness focused community
Mentorship Opportunities
Find or Become a Mentor:
• Be mentored: Connect with experienced veterans in transition
• Become a mentor: Share your experience with new veterans
• Programs: VFW mentorship, American Legion peer leaders, corporate vet programs
• Focus areas: Career transition, mental health recovery, education guidance
Overcoming Barriers to Connection
Feeling Isolated?
Start small: attend one event, try an online group, reach out to one vet
Social Anxiety?
Online groups are a great start. No pressure to speak at first meetings
Don't Know Where to Start?
Call your local VA: 1-877-222-VETS. Ask about support groups in your area
Feeling Judged?
Veteran communities are non-judgmental. Everyone understands the transition
Why Peer Support Matters
- Veterans understand military culture in ways others don't
- Shared experiences reduce stigma around mental health
- Real-world advice from people who've walked similar paths
- Sense of belonging prevents isolation and suicide
- Career and education connections from the community
- Accountability partners for goals and recovery