Veterans Crisis Line

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Dial 1-800-273-8255, press 1 - or - Confidential LIVE CHAT Confidential LIVE CHAT
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I am a Veteran. It's Our Call. We've Earned It. It's the first step you can take to get the help you need to get your life back on track. People are here to help you. -Justin White, U.S. Marine Corps, 1996-1999

You served your country, now let VA serve you.

If you’re a Veteran in crisis, or know a Veteran who is, confidential support is only a phone call or click away.

The Veterans Crisis Line is staffed by caring, qualified VA responders—many who are Veterans themselves. They understand what Veterans have been through and the challenges Veterans of all ages and service eras face.

The Veterans Crisis Line hotline, online chat, and text messaging service are free to all Veterans, even if you are not registered with VA or enrolled in VA health care.Hundreds of Veterans call us every day—and start to get back on track.

Crisis feels different for everybody and can stem from a wide range of situations. Some Veterans are coping with aging, stress, or lingering effects stemming from their military service, which were never addressed. Some recent Veterans may have difficulty with their relationships or the transition back to civilian life.

Whatever’s got you down—chronic pain, anxiety, depression, sleeplessness, anger, or even homelessness—a Veterans Crisis Line responder can provide support, day or night.

Confidential Help for Veterans and their Families

Text to 838255 1-800-273-8255, press 1 Click Here to Start a Confidential Veterans Chat

Get the Help You’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) and online chat , and text (838255). You can also access resources and information anytime.

Network of Support

The Veterans Crisis Line staff can connect you with VA services to help get your 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.

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs National Suicide Prevention Lifeline U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (SAMHSA)