Veterans Crisis Line

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Dial 1-800-273-8255, press 1 - or - Confidential LIVE CHAT Confidential LIVE CHATText to 838255
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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, click, or text away — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

The Veterans Crisis Line, online chat, and text-messaging service are free to all Veterans, even if you are not registered with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) or enrolled in VA health care. Hundreds of Veterans call us every day, and start to get back on track.

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

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 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)

The Veterans Crisis Line text-messaging service does not store mobile phone numbers of users who access information via text message (SMS) or any personally identifiable information about users without their permission. Message and data rates may apply. Click here to view the full terms of service.