Veterans are leading the charge this May, during Mental Health Awareness Month, for a solution that could save lives — starting with their own.
America’s veterans have sacrificed for our nation in service few have known, yet many now face visible and invisible wounds. They seek to thrive in civilian life and continue serving Americans, but are failed by a broken Department of Veterans Affairs and mental health system. Veterans like Logan Locklear, whose story you can read here.
Over 40% of veterans face PTSD, depression, and trauma. Many veterans worry that seeking help with mental illness may be seen as a weakness or lead to job insecurity. But even when they take the step to reach out, getting help isn’t easy.
Veterans seeking mental health care often face long wait times, are forced to use distant VA facilities, and have to navigate confusing rules. These issues can also be roadblocks to their ability to access needed care. And their spouses and families face these battles too, often without guidance or support.
Breaking barriers to veterans’ mental health care
Concerned Veterans for America is raising awareness about this urgent issue by advocating for the Veterans’ ACCESS Act. This bill would offer true health care choices for veterans — especially in urgent mental health cases — by expanding access to local, community-based providers.
Veterans can’t do it alone. Veterans have a unique role to play in strengthening the nation’s mental health system — but they need the tools to do it.
Mental health requires consistent attention, not just during Mental Health Awareness Month. Ongoing support and awareness are vital for veterans and all people working toward recovery.
A solution for all Americans
This isn’t just about veterans — it’s about setting a higher standard of care. The Veterans’ ACCESS Act would improve veterans’ health care by making them the decision-makers and ensuring high-quality treatment.
By keeping its promise to veterans, CVA is promoting a model of care that works better for all Americans. When care is responsive and patient-focused, everyone wins.
And that kind of care doesn’t just help veterans — it gives them the tools to return to strengthening their communities and serving our nation.
Renewing hope for veterans’ mental health
The Veterans’ ACCESS Act would provide critical benefits for veterans across the nation:
1. Clear standards for community care: The act puts timelines and distance rules in place, so veterans won’t have to wait months or travel long distances when the VA can’t deliver quickly. Quick access to care is essential to preventing suicide and reducing the emotional burden of post-traumatic stress.
2. More transparency and tools: Veterans will get clearer information about their care options and access new online tools. The act will require the VA to proactively inform its patients with status updates.
3. Improving access to mental health care: A three-year pilot program would let veterans get mental health and substance abuse care — without a VA referral. Veterans would gain access to high-quality mental health care from local providers who understand their unique needs.
It’s about more than access — it’s about rebuilding trust and care that works.
Passing the Veterans’ ACCESS Act will save lives. It will dramatically improve our warriors’ access to the care they need — whether at the VA or from a provider nearby.
Real stories. Real solutions. Real action.
CVA is ensuring veterans’ voices are heard — from families who’ve lost loved ones due to bureaucratic red tape, to advocates preparing to meet with lawmakers on Capitol Hill.
And this May, as CVA staff and supporters take to the media and prepare for major advocacy events, they’ll be carrying a clear message:
Support the Veterans’ ACCESS Act. Give veterans the care they’ve earned — and Americans the future they deserve.
Join the fight for mental health care that works
CVA is proud to stand with veterans in this mission to stop suicide, eliminate harmful medical delays, and ensure access to care is never in question.
Because when veterans lead, America gets stronger.
Sign CVA’s letter to Congress urging lawmakers to pass the 2025 Veterans’ ACCESS Act.