Veterans Day is a time for all of us to honor and thank the brave people who have served our country. Many veterans carry heavy memories or face tough challenges like anxiety, depression, pain, sleep troubles or even homelessness. Support is available every day, at any time.  

The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline includes a special option just for veterans, service members and their families: call or text 988 and press 1. You can also chat online at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat. You don’t have to be enrolled in Veterans Affairs (VA) health care or benefits to use it.  

When you reach out:

• You’ll connect with trained responders, many of whom are veterans or know military life.  
• Your call or text is free, private and confidential.
• Responders don’t just listen. They can also connect you to local resources like counselors or other services in your community.  
• If you prefer, you can make a 3-way call to support a loved one while they talk.  

How friends and family support veterans

Families and friends can help too. You don’t have to be an expert to make a difference. You can learn the warning signs of crisis like hopelessness, mood swings or withdrawal in trainings like Mental Health First Aid.  

This Veterans Day, let’s do more than say “thank you.” Let’s make sure every veteran, service member and those that support them know they are never alone. Reach out. A single call could change a life.  

How to get support from the CSB

The CSB offers several services for you or your loved one to get help.

For emergency mental health and substance use services, walk-in care is available 24/7 at the Sharon Bulova Center for Community Health or by calling 703-573-5679, TTY 711.  

For non-emergency mental health and substance use services, call or walk in to get started. See details and times.  

As always, call 911 if you have a life-threatening emergency.

For media inquiries, contact CSBCommunications@fairfaxcounty.gov.