VA Mental Health Benefits — VA therapy for vets
Free or low-cost mental health services available to eligible veterans through the VA health care system, including treatment for PTSD, MST, depression.
Official source: va.gov
Veterans can access VA mental health services even if not enrolled in full VA health care when the need is related to military service.
MST-related mental health care is available to all veterans who experienced MST, regardless of discharge character or income.
Same-day mental health services: VA medical centers must offer same-day access to mental health care for veterans in crisis.
Veterans Crisis Line: dial 988 then press 1, text 838255, or chat at VeteransCrisisLine.net.
→ BenefitKarma's guide covers all VA mental health programs including Vet Centers and the Veterans Crisis Line.
In real life
- A veteran who experienced trauma during their service can receive therapy and medication for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) through VA mental health benefits.
- Someone struggling with feelings of sadness and hopelessness after leaving the military can get help for depression from the VA.
- A veteran who is having trouble with alcohol can get counseling and support for substance use disorder through their VA benefits.
Also known as
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Frequently asked questions about VA Mental Health Benefits
What is VA Mental Health Benefits?+
Free or low-cost mental health services available to eligible veterans through the VA health care system, including treatment for PTSD, MST, depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, and suicide prevention. Veterans can access VA mental health services even if not enrolled in full VA health care when the need is related to military service.
Who qualifies for VA Mental Health Benefits?+
MST-related mental health care is available to all veterans who experienced MST, regardless of discharge character or income.
How do I apply for VA Mental Health Benefits?+
Apply at va.gov (search for the program by name) or work with a free accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO) through your state VA office.
Where can I get help?+
Use BenefitKarma's free Benefit Eligibility Screener to see what VA benefits you may have missed, or talk with a free accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO) through your state VA office.
Source: va.gov