Veterans in Austin and Central Texas face unique challenges after their service, including mental health concerns such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance use disorder (SUD), depression, and higher suicide risk. As the veteran population continues to grow in the Austin metro area, access to culturally competent, timely, and community-connected mental health support remains critical.
Mental Health Risks Among Veterans
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide rates among veterans are significantly higher than among non-veteran adults. In 2020, 6,146 veterans died by suicide nationwide, making it the 13th leading cause of death among veterans overall and the second leading cause for veterans under age 45. Veterans are approximately 57% more likely to die by suicide than the general U.S. adult population.
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) reports that about 7% of veterans will experience PTSD at some point in their lives, compared to about 6% of civilians. Veterans who experienced deployment face increased risk, and PTSD often co-occurs with substance use disorder. Nearly one in five veterans with PTSD also struggles with substance use.
VA and Federal Resources in Austin
Austin-area veterans have access to a range of VA services, including specialized care for PTSD, SUD, military sexual trauma (MST), traumatic brain injury (TBI), and other service-related mental health conditions.
Key local VA resources include:
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Central Texas Veterans Health Care System (CTVHCS)
Serving Austin and surrounding communities with outpatient clinics, mental health services, and specialty care. -
Austin VA Outpatient Clinic
Provides primary care and mental health services, referrals, and follow-up care for veterans in Travis County and beyond. -
Austin Vet Center
Offers free, confidential counseling for veterans and their families, provided by counselors—many of whom are veterans themselves. Services include individual and group counseling for PTSD, MST, grief, and readjustment challenges.
State and Local Support Efforts
Texas continues to face gaps in mental health access statewide, including for veterans. In response, local governments, advocacy groups, and commissions—such as the Austin Veteran Affairs Commission—work to identify service gaps, improve coordination, and elevate veteran voices in policy discussions.
These efforts focus on:
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Connecting veterans to local mental health and housing resources
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Reducing stigma around seeking mental health care
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Improving transitions from military to civilian life
Community-Based and Nonprofit Support in Austin
In addition to federal and state resources, several nonprofit and community organizations in Austin and Central Texas support veterans’ mental health and overall well-being:
- Texas Veterans Commission
The Veterans Mental Health Department (VMHD) is focused on ensuring access to competent mental health services for service members, veterans, and their families.VMHD accomplishes this task by providing training, certification, and technical assistance across Texas.
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Veterans Resource Center (Austin Community College)
Provides counseling referrals, peer support, and transition assistance for student veterans. -
Combined Arms (Austin-based)
Connects veterans and military families to vetted service providers for mental health, employment, housing, and wellness support. -
Wounded Warrior Project
Offers evidence-based mental health programs for PTSD, MST, and TBI, serving tens of thousands of veterans and families nationwide, including in Texas. -
Code of Support Foundation
Helps veterans and caregivers navigate complex systems and access coordinated care.
Crisis Support for Veterans
In times of crisis, veterans can contact the Veterans Crisis Line by:
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Dialing 988, then pressing 1
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Texting 838255
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Chatting online via the VA’s website
The Veterans Crisis Line provides 24/7, confidential support from trained responders, many of whom are veterans themselves.
Moving Forward
Veteran mental health is not only a medical issue—it is a community responsibility. Ensuring veterans in Austin feel connected, supported, and valued requires collaboration between healthcare providers, policymakers, nonprofits, and local communities.
By expanding access to care, strengthening community-based solutions, and reducing isolation after service, Austin can continue working toward a future where veterans and their families receive the support they deserve.
For more information, veterans can visit VA.gov or contact their local VA or Vet Center for services and referrals.
