Note from MOAA: If you or someone you know is in crisis, contact the Veterans Crisis Line at 988 (press 1) or via www.veteranscrisisline.net.

MOAA joined fellow veterans service organizations at a September VA stakeholders partnership meeting as part of both National Suicide Prevention Month and National Recovery Month, with the discussion focused on progress in mental health and suicide prevention.

Leaders from the Veterans Experience Office (VEO), the Office of Mental Health, and the Office of Suicide Prevention shared updates on innovative programs and critical resources available to veterans, families, and caregivers. Here are some of the ways the VA is advancing veteran mental health care:

Strengthening Community Connections: The VetResources Community Network (VRCN) continues to expand its outreach, connecting more than 10 million veterans and their loved ones with trusted local and national partners. By building relationships across communities, the VRCN helps bridge gaps in care, fosters trust, and ensures veterans can access resources that support their overall well-being.

[RELATED: VA Hospital Ratings Show Gains, But Challenges Remain]

Predictive Modeling to Save Lives: The VA recently upgraded its predictive analytics tool, REACH VET 2.0 (Recovery Engagement and Coordination for Health-Veteran Enhanced Treatment), to better identify veterans at elevated risk of suicide or self-harm. By leveraging expanded clinical and social data contained in veteran electronic medical records, the program allows providers to proactively connect with veterans most in need. Results show fewer suicide attempts, reduced hospital visits, and more veterans engaging in safety planning.

Veterans Crisis Line (VCL): The Veterans Crisis Line remains a cornerstone of VA’s suicide prevention strategy. The 24/7 service, accessible by dialing 988 and pressing 1, answers calls in less than 9 seconds on average. In addition to crisis response, the VA is piloting a program called Caring Letters, which sends brief, supportive messages to veterans after they reach out to the VCL. Originally developed for civilian use, the approach has been shown to reduce suicide risk. VA is now testing its effectiveness with veterans through a multiyear evaluation initiative. These wraparound supports reinforce the message that no veteran has to face crisis alone.

[RELATED: Veterans Face Access, Payment and Records Delays When Seeking Medical Care at Military Bases, Watchdog Finds]

Face Your Dragon: The VA Face Your Dragon campaign, part of VA’s Keep It Secure initiative, uses the metaphor of confronting a dragon to represent the struggle of a suicide crisis. Developed with input from veterans, the campaign encourages safe firearm storage to create time and space for intervention, reduce stigma, and ultimately prevent suicide. The campaign uses the dragon as a symbol of life’s burdens and the fight against suicidal thoughts in an effort to promote secure firearm practices as a simple, effective step to protect veterans in crisis.

MOAA’s Commitment

MOAA strongly supports VA’s continued investments in mental health services and suicide prevention. Programs such as REACH VET, the VCL, peer support, and community partnerships highlight the power of combining data-driven tools with compassionate outreach.

As we mark National Recovery Month, MOAA reaffirms its commitment to working with the VA, Congress, and partners to strengthen services, expand access, and ensure no veteran faces crisis alone.

Resources for Veterans and Families

• Veterans Crisis Line — Dial 988 (press 1) or text 838255.
• Make the Connection — Veterans share real stories of recovery and resilience.
• VA Mental Health — Tools, information, and support for veterans and families.
• VA Suicide Prevention — Learn about programs, training, and ways to help.
• Face Your Dragon — Secure your firearm. Create time and space.