Make the Connection
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ national public awareness campaign.
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Veteran Stories
Watch Jess' Story
Watch Jess' Story
While in the Army, Jess was sexually assaulted by a fellow soldier. The experience took a toll on her mental health, and she began to drink heavily and behave recklessly. Jess eventually made an appointment to receive treatment through VA. The supportive environment of women’s clinics and treatment such as cognitive behavioral therapy taught Jess tools to manage her PTSD, depression, and anxiety so she could reclaim her life.
Watch Nick's Story
Watch Nick's Story
Nick, an Army Veteran, felt a hole in his life when he came home from serving in Iraq. He tried to fill it with excessive drinking, which drove his family away. A crisis call to a friend became his turning point, leading to inpatient treatment and then outpatient therapy that helped Nick become sober and be present as a dad. Today, through music, Nick shares that it’s OK to ask for help.
Watch Glenn's Story
Watch Glenn's Story
Glenn served in the Navy from 1971 to 1972 as a quartermaster in Vietnam, which was rare at the time for a Black man. He experienced instances of racism that left him injured and feeling unsafe among his peers. After service, he became homeless, was depressed, and, at his lowest point, tried to end his own life. A psychosocial rehabilitation and recovery center (PRRC) and PTSD support groups helped Glenn find sources of healing.
Watch Deidre's Story
Watch Deidre's Story
Experiencing relationship issues and homelessness made Deidre, an Army Veteran, realize she needed to focus on her mental health. Through one-on-one therapy and journaling, Deidre improved her mental health. Now, she helps other Veterans secure housing and jobs.
Watch Kim's Story
Watch Kim's Story
Kimberly experienced sexual harassment and demeaning treatment in the Army. Later, she faced challenges, including an eating disorder, panic attacks, and nightmares. She buried herself in work and school, self-isolated, and had thoughts of suicide. Counseling and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) helped her process the trauma and feel seen.
Watch Sean's Story
Watch Sean's Story
Sean, an Army Veteran, endured daily mortar attacks, firefights, and IEDs overseas. The physical injuries and trauma left him with uncontrollable anger, making it tough to keep jobs. He self-isolated and felt like a burden to his loved ones. Art and connecting with other Veterans in therapy groups have been healing for him.
Watch Mario's Story
Watch Mario's Story
After getting injured while in the Marines, Mario began misusing his prescribed medication and drank alcohol in an attempt to cope with his challenges, which eventually led him to be discharged. After service, he received a DUI, served time in prison, and joined a gang. Court-ordered programs helped set him on a better path. Treatment, including ketamine treatment, helped him process his feelings and get his life back. Today, Mario is proud to be a role model and peer specialist who helps other Veterans get the support they need.
Resources for Veterans
Visit Make the Connection
Visit Make the Connection
Explore Resources for Alcohol Use Disorder
Explore Resources for Alcohol Use Disorder
Some Veterans may experience alcohol use disorder. Take action: hear Veterans' stories, learn about symptoms & find treatment options.
Watch More Stories From Veterans
Watch More Stories From Veterans
Choose from the options below to find the stories most relevant to you. Sort videos on as many or as few options as you prefer.
Find Mental Health Resources
Find Mental Health Resources
Find the Veteran resources most helpful for you. No matter what you may be experiencing, there is support for getting your life on a better track.
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Sign Up for the Make the Connection Email List
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