Service Members, Veterans and their Families
Service members, veterans and their families (SMVF) face unique mental health challenges than other populations.
According to a study conducted in 2014, 1 in 4 active duty members showed signs of a mental health condition.
Since 2001, more than 2.6 million Active Duty, National Guard, and Reserves have deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan (Institute of Medicine., 2021).
Over 1.1 million spouses, parents, and friends are caring for injured and disabled veterans who have served since September 11, 2001 (Ramchand et al., 2014).
It's important to address mental health and substance use concerns among active and retired service members, as well as the health of their families and caregivers.
Stay in the Fight
Veterans are at 50% higher risk of suicide than their peers who have not served. You are important. You matter. Stay in the fight.
ODMHSAS partners with a variety of organizations dedicated to helping veterans and their families through life challenges and transitioning from active military service back to civilian life, and beyond.
- I Need Help
- I Want to Help
- Get Involved
- Resources
Veterans Crisis Line
If you’re a Veteran in crisis or concerned about one, there are caring, qualified VA responders standing by to help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The Veterans Crisis Line is a free, anonymous, confidential resource that’s available to anyone, even if you’re not registered with VA or enrolled in VA health care.
A trained responder will answer your call. The responder will ask you a few questions, such as whether you or the Veteran or Service member you’re concerned about may be in immediate danger or at risk for suicide. You will decide what to share about yourself and what you want to talk about.
988 Mental Health Lifeline
24 hours a day, 7 days a week
OKVALOR - Oklahoma Veterans Assistance Locator
OKVALOR is the Oklahoma Veterans Assistance Locator. Service members, veterans and their families can use this tool to locate nearby community-based resources and services, including mental health resources.
OKVALOR is provided free of charge by the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs.
Make the Connection
No matter when, where, or how you served, or what you’ve experienced in military or civilian life, you may be facing challenges that affect your health, relationships, and life. Whether your military role ended two decades ago or two days ago, you share with Veterans everywhere the common bonds of duty, honor, and service to our nation. Every day, Veterans connect with resources and support to manage and confront the issues they may have and find solutions for improving their lives.
Make The Connection collects videos and resources from veterans to help others along the way toward recovery. Watch Veterans and their family members share real stories of strength and recovery, find useful information and local mental health resources, and explore ways to show your support.
Cohen Veterans Network
Cohen Veterans Network was created for the sole purpose of treating all post-9/11 veterans and family members to high-quality mental health care by removing barriers to care.
Cohen Military Family Clinics provide specialized therapy for depression, anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other transitional challenges. Cohen Clinics also provide marriage counseling, relationship counseling and help with children’s behavioral issues to support the entire military family.
Penny Mitchell
Open Access Specialist