Resources for veterans affected by Russian invasion of Ukraine

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs announced Tuesday a list of resources for veterans who may be feeling emotional distress or reminded of their own deployment experiences, amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine."I know that many of you, like me, have been deeply affected by the war in Ukraine," Veterans Affairs Secretary Denis McDonough said in a press release. "My heart goes out to the Ukrainian people as they defend themselves from this unprovoked attack, and to everyone impacted by this terrible war.

Please know that we at VA are here for you during this difficult time." McDonough noted the government agency is "standing by and ready to help — today and every day."For veterans with prolonged distress or the inability to function, the VA suggests seeking help.According to the agency, there are professionals available who can help vets with the most common responses, such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, moral injury and complicated grief.A destroyed building after a Russian missile attack in the town of Vasylkiv, near Kyiv, on February 27, 2022. (Photo by Dimitar DILKOFF / AFP) (Photo by DIMITAR DILKOFF/AFP via Getty Images) Every VA facility also has mental health specialists available.

You can find a local provider here. RELATED: Civilians and veterans helping evacuate Americans from Ukraine: 'Never leave an American behind'If you feel like you might hurt yourself or someone else, reach out now to the Veterans Crisis Line, online chat and text-messaging service, which are free to all veterans, even if you are not enrolled in VA health care.