May is Mental Health Awareness Month

 

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The Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA) remains dedicated to ensuring Service Members, Veterans, and Families (SMVF) have access to essential mental health services that promote well-being and resilience. For those facing challenges, building connectedness and maintaining hope are critical steps in navigating stigma and other barriers to seeking mental health care.

The Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA) Counseling and Wellness Program provides confidential, community-based mental health services for Veterans and their families.

The Counseling and Wellness Program provides: 

  • Free Counseling Services: Individual, couples, family, and group therapy, including specialized support for military sexual trauma.
  • Veteran-Specific Support: Some providers offer women veterans' and spouses' group services to address unique needs.
  • Referrals for Specialized Care: Veterans may be referred to VA Medical Centers or Vet Centers for inpatient or outpatient treatment.
  • Licensed Mental Health Professionals: WDVA contractors offer specialized treatment and connections to additional support networks.
  • No Cost & No Visit Limits: Services are free, ensuring accessibility for those in need.

Eligibility is not dependent on discharge status, and priority is given to those who are most vulnerable or lack other care options.

For more details, visit the Counseling Services and Wellness Programs | WDVA or find a provider here: Find a Counselor | WDVA

Suicide Prevention: Advocacy and Support for SMVF

WDVA’s Suicide Prevention Team provides LEARN Suicide Prevention and Combating Stigma trainings, free to all individuals, groups, and communities, whether virtual or in person. These trainings offer insight into recognizing warning signs, supporting those at risk, and ensuring proactive suicide prevention efforts in workplaces, families, and communities.

Mental health care is vital regardless of whether an individual is in crisis. Many Veterans live with undiagnosed mental health conditions, including depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and co-occurring substance use disorders.

To learn more about our Suicide Prevention and Support Program visit Suicide Prevention and Support | WDVA

Access the Mental Health Awareness Toolkit HERE.

Traumatic Brain Injury and Mental Health Support

Mental health challenges are often compounded by traumatic brain injuries (TBI), which can impact cognitive function, mood, and emotional regulation. WDVA provides resources through its Traumatic Brain Injury Toolkit to support Veterans, caregivers, and healthcare providers. The toolkit offers guidance on managing symptoms, accessing specialized care, and fostering resilience for those affected by TBI.

To learn more about our Brain Injury & Recovery Program visit Brain Injury & Recovery-TBI Program | WDVA

Access the Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Toolkit visit TBI Toolkit | WDVA

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