The future can feel intimidating, especially when you’re facing the uncharted territory of the civilian job market. You might wish you knew exactly where your skills fit in, how to communicate your value and what it takes to land the perfect opportunity. But when it comes to navigating the job search, there is a way…
Support your mental health, one app at a time
Explore VA’s virtual mental health resources Stop for a moment and think about all the things you do every day to take care of your physical health. It can be as simple as brushing your teeth before bed, eating a balanced meal at dinnertime, or scheduling an annual checkup. You don’t have to be under…
Minutes that matter: Federal EHR gives nurses time back for patient care
Streamlined workflows at Dayton VA medical center enhance nursing efficiency Just after VA’s Federal Electronic Health Record (EHR) went live at the Dayton VA Medical Center, Emily Allan, chief of Mental Health Nursing Service, was rounding with the team. They were done with their morning charting by 10 a.m. That 10 a.m. finish was a…
Veterans open up about their keys to recovery
Veterans speak directly about how they found effective treatments and overcame setbacks How do you start your path to recovery from addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety or other mental health challenges? How do you find effective treatments, deal with setbacks, keep moving forward and begin to heal? For National Recovery Month this September, VA is sharing…
From application to offer: Understanding VA’s hiring process
Looking for a job can sometimes feel like you’re sending your application into the void. You craft the perfect 2-page resume, upload any required supporting documents, hit submit and then wait. And wait. And wait. Fortunately, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is taking active measures to streamline the hiring process via the new 30-day hiring model. Qualified candidates can expect…
Investigate before you invest
Veterans are increasingly becoming prime targets for investment scams. Scammers often exploit the trust, camaraderie and sense of service that defines the Veteran community, using convincing tactics to lure Veterans into costly traps. It’s essential to recognize the warning signs of investment scams and to stay alert to protect your financial future. There are many…
Live Whole Health #333: Self care and finding time for yourself
A simple reflection exercise to help Veterans and caregivers reclaim time for themselves When it comes to self care, how much time do you set aside for yourself each day? If your honest answer is “barely any,” you’re not alone. It’s always easy to feel like you’re losing track of time—and yourself. We find that…
Five organizations with Veterans wellness at the heart of their mission
Editor’s note: The sharing of any non-VA information does not constitute an endorsement of products and services on the part of VA. Veterans should verify the information with the organization offering. Veteran‑led and community based organizations nationwide are stepping up to strengthen the connections that support Veterans’ well‑being. These groups provide peer support, reduce social…
A second chance in the courtroom: Veteran found healing
Paying it forward: One Veteran’s healing journey through treatment court Once people find themselves in a courtroom with a judge, they typically never want to return. That was not the case for Army Veteran Jimmy Wigington, where the courtroom became a place of hope, not judgment. It became a place where he received a second…
Because they served: VA volunteers honored for community impact
VA Volunteers honored for dedication to Veterans, caregivers and survivors Volunteers are the heartbeat of care at the Louis A. Johnson VA Medical Center, and their dedication was recently recognized on WDTV as part of the area’s new Hometown Heart Award initiative. Sponsored by Antero Resources and WDTV 5 News, this award shines a spotlight…
The recruiter advantage: Landing your first clinical role at VA
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is the nation’s largest healthcare system, employing more than 371,000 health care professionals and support staff at 1,380 healthcare facilities. To find the best candidates in the industry and to manage a large volume of applications, VA works with hundreds of recruiters around the country. Our specialty recruiter teams provide personalized support…
Finding her rhythm: How music therapy helped Veteran heal from PTSD
The sound of healing from PTSD When post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) made everyday life feel overwhelming, Sgt. RaMonica Felton found an unexpected source of healing: music. The racing heart, emotional outbursts and stress that once defined her days have been replaced by something much different. Today, a familiar song helps her slow down, breathe and…