Every May, VA recognizes Mental Health Awareness Month. It’s an opportunity to educate organizations and individuals about mental health challenges and treatment options, and to make sure people know that recovery is possible. You can make an impact by sharing Make the Connection’s resources, information, and tools with a Veteran you know.

The Use Your Voice program is designed to let not only Veterans, but allAmericans know that reaching out for mental health information and support isjust as important as talking to one’s doctor about diet, blood pressure, jointpain and other health challenges.

“It’s time to break down barriers and reverse the stigma of mental illness,”said Dr. Poonam Alaigh, acting VA under secretary for Health. “We want Veteransto know there are effective options available right now and reaching out forhelp is a sign of strength, resilience and courage."

Individuals and organizations can make a difference and get involved bydownloading, sharing, tweeting or posting a variety of content located at www.MakeTheConnection.net/UseYourVoice.Additionally, VA will hold a Facebook Live event about the Use Your Voiceprogram at 1 p.m. (EST) May 4, which  can be viewed and shared via theMake the Connection Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/VeteransMTC.

While many Veterans do not experience mental health issues in theirlifetime, it is critically important for those who do to know that support andtreatment are available. By changing how people discuss mental healthconditions and symptoms of mental illness, VA is making it easier for Veteranswho need support to feel comfortable reaching out.

For more information on mental health treatment, Veterans’ personal storiesof recovery and a locator tool to find Veterans’ resources across the country,visit VA’s Make the Connection website at http://www.MakeTheConnection.net/UseYourVoice.