Veterans from all generations are processing the news of what is currently unfolding in Afghanistan and could be experiencing a wide range of emotions and feelings right now. From union presidents to first-year apprentices, many of these veterans are our brothers and sisters in the labor movement, and we want to support them during this time of concern.
With more than 1 million working union veterans and countless retirees, the Union Veterans Council wants to ensure that the labor community and our veterans are educated, informed and prepared with the right resources and support to face this moment head-on.
Let’s be clear this will not affect all veterans, but our goal is to be prepared and make sure that any union veteran or family member gets the support they need, even if it is just a check-in.
We have also compiled a list of resources which are accessible to veterans, veterans’ supporters and the general public. Please share widely so that everyone who needs these resources has access to them.
Veterans Crisis Line: If you are having thoughts of suicide, call 1-800-273-8255, then press 1, or visit their website.
For emergency mental health care, you can also go directly to your local Veterans Affairs medical center, 24 hours, seven days a week, regardless of your discharge status or enrollment in other VA health care.
Vet Centers: Discuss how you feel with other veterans in these community-based counseling centers. Approximately 70% of Vet Center staff are veterans. Call 1-877-927-8387 or find one near you.
MakeTheConnection: Information, resources and veteran-to-veteran videos that discuss challenging life events and experiences that raise mental health issues.
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