VA is here for the people who support our Veterans.
Whether you’re a Veteran’s spouse, child, parent, sibling, grandparent, friend, or caregiver, the Veterans Crisis Line is here for you. If you are concerned about the safety and well-being of a Veteran, stand by them. Call 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1, chat online, or send a text message to 838255 to receive free, confidential support from an experienced, caring U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs responder.
Family members, caregivers, and loved ones are often the first to realize a Veteran may be in crisis and need support. Responders at the Veterans Crisis Line are specially trained to help Veterans’ families and friends make sure their loved ones get connected to care.
Crisis feels different for everybody and can arise from a wide range of situations before, during, or after military service. Some Veterans are coping with aging, stress, or similar challenges faced during civilian life while others may experience difficulties in their relationships or transitioning back to employment or education.
Whatever’s got a Veteran down—chronic pain, anxiety, depression, sleeplessness, anger, or even homelessness—a Veterans Crisis Line responder can provide support, day or night. If you know a Veteran in crisis, stand by them and make the call.
Confidential Help for Veterans and their Families
Get Them the Help They've Earned
Confidential support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year through the Veterans Crisis Line (1-800-273-8255 and Press 1) , online chat , and text (838255). You can also access resources and information anytime.
Network of Support
The Veterans Crisis Line can put you in touch with VA services that can help your loved one get his or her life back on track. Calls can be referred to local Suicide Prevention Coordinators and other VA providers who specialize in issues such as:
- Post-traumatic stress (PTS/PTSD)
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Military sexual trauma (MST)
- Family and relationship issues
- Issues related to OEF/OIF/OND deployments
For more information about VA’s mental health resources, visit www.mentalhealth.va.gov.