PTSD Bytes: How Veterans shape VA mental health apps

In this episode of the PTSD Bytes podcast, host Dr. Colleen Becket-Davenport talks with with Dr. Sarah Senti, clinical psychologist and lead of user experience research at the National Center for PTSD’s Public Digital Health Innovation Program, about how Veterans help shape VA’s mental health mobile apps VA mental health mobile apps VA offers over…

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Finding purpose in the HERD

Air Force Veteran Scott McLean has always found peace in the eyes of animals. It all began with his military service as a police officer, where he often spent more time with his canine partner than in his very own home. He refers to his patrol canine as his “therapist,” the one he could share…

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No matter what, VA is here for you

No matter what, VA is here for you. Through my work with VA, I meet a diverse range of Veterans. They’re from all across the nation, from coastal cities to rural areas in the center of the country. They’re at different stages of their lives. Some are parents of young children and some are grandparents…

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VA hosts 2024 Immersive Summit

Veterans, VA leadership, industry and academia came together in June for the 2024 VA Immersive Summit. The annual event is held to promote collaboration on behalf of immersive technology adoption and expansion across VA. Dr. Clancy The VA Immersive Summit is organized by VA’s Strategic Initiatives Lab and showcases the real-world benefits of immersive technologies…

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Dr. Ziyad Al-Aly earns recognition for Long COVID research

VA’s Dr. Ziyad Al-Aly was recently named to the TIME100 Most Influential People in Health of 2024. Since 2020, he published about 20 research studies that have helped shape the world’s understanding of the long-term effects of COVID-19, which can range from debilitating fatigue and brain fog to increased risks of chronic conditions. “From the…

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Preparations for hurricane season

These actions will help you and your family prepare for hurricane season: Find out if you live in a hurricane evacuation zone. Locate the nearest shelter if you need to leave your home. Review/update insurance policies. Build or replenish your emergency kit with hurricane supplies. Create, be familiar with and test your family plan. Stay…

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MVP: Another chapter in VA’s history of medical research 

The history of the United States is full of wars fought and conflicts entered. It’s made up of the stories of service members, Veterans and the people who support their efforts. The founding of VA is one of those stories. This July, VA celebrates its 94th birthday. On July 21, 1930, President Herbert Hoover signed…

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Daughter finds support in Caregiver Health and Well-being Coaching

Vietnam Army Veteran John Usry, 75, has faced numerous health challenges, including colon cancer, diabetes, kidney failure, heart issues and dementia. He needed help. The help of his daughter Jerusha is vital in his life and the help of VA ‘s Caregiver Support Program’s (CSP) is vital in hers. Jerusha has been a devoted caregiver…

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Veteran with chronic pain receives life-changing care

Robert Judge’s chronic pain overshadowed every aspect of his life. More social and happier in his everyday life His pain was constant and overwhelming. It ruled over his social life, physical activity and mental health. After having multiple operations, including lower back and kidney removal surgeries, this 65-year-old Veteran from Illinois knew he needed to…

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Disaster assistance and resources for Veterans

An active tornado season, historic flooding and other severe weather have impacted millions of Americans this year.  As we step into a strong forecasted hurricane season, it’s important for Veterans and their families to know that the VA is here to help. In the wake of a disaster, here are some resources available to you.…

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Award recognizes VSO collaboration and late DAV leader

VA is motivated by its mission to care for those who have served in our nation’s military and for their families, caregivers and survivors. Yet VA cannot do that alone, and it relyies on collaboration with industry partners, academic institutions, non-profits and government agencies as force multipliers. Advancing VA’s mission together For the Veteran perspective,…

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Make Minority Mental Health Awareness Month the time you choose a VA career

All Veterans face unique challenges when returning home and transitioning back to civilian life, and our mental health professionals—psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers and more—are integral to empowering Veterans to take charge of their wellbeing and pursue fuller lives. Veterans from diverse backgrounds may face additional challenges and stigmas with regard to mental health. Recognizing those concerns, VA…

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