Sources of Help
Some situations may need extra support. Parenting can be even harder when you’re dealing with intense anger, substance use, depression, or posttraumatic stress. Even very young children can feel the effects of stress at home. This section includes information on both formal and informal supports for both parents and their children when times get challenging.
Urgent Help
If you, your child, or anyone in your home is experiencing a medical or mental health emergency, call 911 right away.
Also, if you are a Veteran in crisis, or know someone who is, help is available 24/7 through the Veterans Crisis Line. You’ll connect with caring, qualified responders—many of whom are Veterans themselves. You can reach out in the way that feels right for you:
- Call: 988, then press 1
- Text: 838255
- Chat online: Veterans Crisis Line Chat
Whether or not you’re a Veteran, you can also contact the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline any time:
- Call: 988
- Text: 838255
- Chat online: Lifeline Chat
Finding Resources
Most of the time, needing help doesn’t mean there’s an emergency—but it can still feel hard to know where to turn. In this section, you will find guidance for getting support with common challenges parents and families face. You’re not alone, and reaching out is a strong and hopeful step forward.
Select each question below to identify resources for your specific situation.
VA Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Program Locations
Search for VA-based treatment programs available in your local area
VA Alcohol and Drug Education Course
A free, self-paced online course covering alcohol and drug use, reasons for use, health effects, and treatment options for making positive changes
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
Offers information and tools to locate treatment options, including a section specifically for Veterans
NIAAA Alcohol Treatment Navigator
Provides guidance for individuals concerned about drinking and support for their loved ones
Locate a VA facility near you for behavioral healthcare services and support
Vet Centers (Readjustment Counseling)
Vet Centers are community-based counseling centers focused on making a successful transition from military to civilian life
Defense Centers of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury
DCoE was created in November 2007 to be the open door for Veterans and their families needing help with psychological health and traumatic brain injury issues
Behavioral Health Treatment Service Locator (SAMHSA)
Find community mental health treatment facilities and programs in your area for adults, families and children
DOD resource for service members provides information and short-term, non-medical counseling by telephone, online or in the community
For more information about available services, contact your local VA facility.
Your pediatrician is always a helpful resource.
CDC Resources on Children’s Mental Health
The CDC’s children’s mental health page offers insights on development, emotional well-being, and tips for parents and caregivers
The Veteran Parenting Toolkit includes five sets of age-specific parenting materials for Veteran parents and their partners
National Military Family Association
Provides education and information regarding rights, benefits, and services for military families
Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA)
The office of the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) issues guidance for military families with children who have special needs and who are receiving, or are eligible to receive, a free appropriate public education either domestically or overseas
Sources of Support
In addition to more formal sources of help, many parents also rely on other supports as parents. These can help with physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.
Select each tab below to identify a potential source of support.
Potential sources of support
Friend, Family Member, or Neighbor
Every parent needs a break. Ask a friend, family member, or neighbor to babysit for a couple of hours while you have a few moments alone.
Faith-Based Community
Connect with a faith-based community for emotional support. Many faith-based communities offer groups or programs for parents and social groups for children of different ages.
Counselor/Therapist
You can also access resources for therapy when you need counseling or additional guidance. Find a community mental health clinic/therapist or access help through VA.
Child’s School/Teachers and Community
Your child’s school and teachers can offer helpful support and resources. Community event calendars, parenting groups, and local parenting classes can be other great ways to connect with others and find support.
Women Veterans’ Health Care
Postpartum Depression and Anxiety
The postpartum period starts right after a baby is born and lasts for several months. This is a time of big changes for everyone. Postpartum mental health problems can affect both the parent who gave birth, as well as any potential partner or person involved in caregiving (or coparenting). Depression and anxiety symptoms can make it hard to focus, sleep, eat, and enjoy time with the baby. These feelings can also cause strong feelings of guilt, worry, or fear. For someone that might already have symptoms of PTSD, new stress, lack of sleep, and reminders of past trauma can make nightmares, flashbacks, or feeling “on edge” worse. Some parents may start or increase alcohol or drug use to cope, which can lead to more problems with mood, safety, and relationships. Partners might also feel depressed or anxious, especially if they feel unsure or overwhelmed. Adjusting to new roles, changes at home, or recovering from a difficult birth can all affect how people cope after having a new baby (Cleveland Clinic, 2022).
A Veteran’s Experience with Postpartum Depression
Select the video to hear Kim, an Air Force Veteran, share her experience with postpartum depression that went undiagnosed for years.
More Supports for New Veteran Mothers
VA has Women’s Health services that can offer support for this and other issues experienced by new and expecting mothers.
Select each tab below to identify a potential source of support for women Veterans.
sources of support for women Veterans
To get help about VA benefits and services, including postpartum depression treatment, call or text 1-855-VA-WOMEN (1-855-829-6636) Monday through Saturday. Or contact them at Women Veterans Call Center.
The link below connects to VA resources on pregnancy and mental health. VA is here to support your mental health through every stage—before, during and after your pregnancy. Find out more at Pregnancy and Mental Health.
Breastfeeding Support
VA understands that breastfeeding with human milk has many benefits for both you and your baby, but it can also come with challenges—and it’s not the right choice for everyone. That’s why many VA facilities offer lactation services and programs to support you, no matter your journey.
The first step to accessing breastfeeding support services at VA is to reach out or schedule an appointment with the Maternity Care Coordinator or a lactation professional at your local VA facility. They’re here to help connect you with the best resources for your needs.
For additional information, visit Breastfeeding and Lactation from VA.
Wrap-Up
Parenting can be challenging, especially during tough times. While we’ve listed resources for common issues, many more are available. You’re not alone—support is available from VA, your child’s school, or your community. The most important step is to reach out.
Reference
Cleveland Clinic. (2022, April 12). Postpartum depression. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9312-postpartum-depression
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