Category: VA

The homeless outreach team was there when Eoighin McGilligan needed it. After leaving the Navy, McGilligan’s transition didn’t turn out as he had planned. Problems started piling up, his world started to cave in on him and he had difficulties finding housing for himself and his family of five children. “I figured I’d call VA…

There are many links between brain health, physical health and mental health, meaning that brain health can have a big impact on a person’s quality of life. Research shows that you can positively affect your brain health by getting quality sleep, regularly engaging in physical activity, and maintaining your personal relationships and social network. Some…

Like the Veterans we serve, rural communities are as diverse and exciting as you can imagine. You may find an opportunity to be closer to family and friends, or just enjoy a greater sense of privacy. Perhaps the lower cost of living or even the allure of open space appeals to you. You’ll find all…

For many, the Food Pyramid was our first introduction to thinking about diet, nutrition and making healthy food choices. The earliest food guides for Americans are over 100 years old, and studying them today shows a fascinating history reflecting on the challenges and concerns of nutrition at the time. These food guides evolved from basic…

Hope Recovery Center focuses on helping Veterans develop skills to feel better, be successful and have meaningful relationships. Since 2020, 83% of its participants successfully completed the program. The Hope Recovery Center is an outpatient treatment program designed to assist Veterans grappling with severe mental illness or PTSD. By providing a therapeutic learning setting, Veterans…

VA’s Claim Status Tool allows Veterans to quickly view the status of their VA claim, decision review or appeal online through VA.gov. This free service allows Veterans the flexibility to access and monitor their claim online or from their mobile device 24/7. Veterans can select the time of day that best suits their schedule.  To…

“Food is Medicine” is a produce prescription program being tested by Michael E. DeBakey VA in Houston. In addition to $100 on a special debit card to purchase fresh produce, Veteran participants also receive nutrition education and on-going coaching. Army Veteran Herman Johnson struggled with his weight for years. His health suffered, his mobility suffered and even…

Gardening is good for body, mind and spirit, and VA gardening opportunities help Veterans dig deep in support of their Whole Health. Veterans nationwide are benefitting from gardening programs that allow them to move the body, connect with peers, prepare healthy foods and improve their overall sense of well-being. Army Veteran David Jedrzejewski lost his…

As the largest employer of social workers in the nation, with more than 18,000 social workers among our ranks, VA can offer you a career anywhere, both geographically and professionally. “We are looking for people who are really motivated to learn and motivated to come in and meet our mission, people who can be flexible,…

When your neck hurts, it is natural to place your hands on the area that is hurting and press or rub. Acupressure gives you a formal routine using just your hands to relieve head and neck pain anytime, anywhere. Acupressure has been used for thousands of years to help people manage pain and other symptoms…

On June 6, Kansas City VA unveiled a Blue Star Memorial marker at its main campus, honoring all Veterans. The Blue Star became an icon during World War II and was seen on flags and banners in homes across America for sons and daughters serving overseas. This program has been active all those years, a…

Veterans are at particular risk of suicide with a rate that is 1.5 times higher than that of the overall U.S. population. According to the 2023 National Veteran and Suicide Prevention Annual Report, 6,392 U.S. Veterans died from suicide in 2021. To address this complex issue facing Veterans, VA has made Veteran suicide prevention its…