Virtual mental healthcare skyrockets amidst COVID-19

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced dramatic increases in telemental health care use during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

“VA is open for business and we continue to provide same-day mental health services and mental health screening for veterans at-risk who require attention at any of our facilities,” VA Secretary Robert Wilkie said. “There is no doubt VA’s early embrace of new technology is aiding veterans, and I applaud VA health-care workers and veteran patients for embracing it.”

Mental health-care providers during March completed more than 34,000 appointments using VA Video Connect, a dramatic increase from the 20,000 appointments made before the pandemic began in February. VA officials expect these numbers to continue to grow in April as more states implement stay-at-home orders.

• Telehealth group therapy conducted more than 2,700 visits in March, a jump of more than 200 percent from the prior month.

• Mental health care and consultation delivered by phone rose to more than 154,000 appointments in March, up 280 percent from the 40,000 appointments in February.

• Vet Centers across the nation held more than 47,000 virtual appointments in March, a 200 percent increase from February. These counseling sessions dealt with mental health issues.

Veterans and their families are urged to take precautions to protect themselves and others against COVID-19. Those exhibiting symptoms of fever, cough and shortness of breath should call their VA medical center before going to a clinic to limit risk of exposure.

Veterans interested in learning more about scheduling a telehealth appointment can read the latest VA information about the Coronavirus and mental health.

For veterans in crisis, help is available at the Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255, and press 1, or text 838255, or chat www.VeteransCrisisLine.net.

For the latest VA updates on coronavirus and common-sense tips on preventing the spread of disease, visit www.publichealth.va.gov/n-coronavirus/.

Stay informed on message from American Legion National Commander James W. "Bill" Oxford and other news stories regarding the coronavirus at www.legion.org/coronavirus.