Make the Connection
VA Launches New Website
By Ellen Kozel
I just received word from the VA of a great new website they just launched. Laid out and specifically designed to give veterans a one place to find services. The site is called “Make the Connection” and is shared experiences and support for veterans.
You can filter your connection by gender, era you served, branch of service and whether or not you saw combat. There are videos from veterans talking about their experiences, VA programs available specific to your era. Signs and symptoms and conditions related to your service.
The site contains all kinds of additional information by clicking on resources. Things like understanding PTSD, a guide to VA Mental Health Services and a VA Medical Center locator. You can do Self Assessments on Depression, PTSD, Alcohol Abuse and Drug Abuse. There is even a section on Self Help.
The section Signs & Symptoms covers everything from Alcohol & Drug Abuse to Trouble Sleeping. Looking at Stress and Anxiety answers questions such as “What are stress and anxiety?”, “What Can I do if I’m experiencing stress and anxiety” , “Exploring resources for stress and anxiety in veterans” and last but not least making the connection. Places you can go both civilian and VA. There is also a video of a veteran who experiences stress and anxiety and his story.
Under Conditions there is everything from Adjustment Disorder to Suicide. There is even a section on life experience and events. This section contains stories of veterans and their experiences. These pages are really worth watching.
So if you have some time, go to http://maketheconnection.net/ and check out “Make the Connection” I think you will place it in your favorites and keep it as a reference. This vet is still exploring the site and viewing all the material. There is so much information you just can’t do it in one sitting.