Veterans Service Officer Wayne Kleinschmidt encourages family and friends of veterans to talk openly with the veterans if they show signs of stress, anxiety, depression, or other mental well-being concerns.
Kleinschmidt notes those signs could include excessive worrying or dread, irritability or agitation, restlessness or difficulty concentrating, fatigue, and anxiety or panic attacks. Family and friends are also asked to encourage healthy habits, autonomy, and independence for their loved ones.
Counseling services are available for veterans if they need them. Northern Missouri Veteran Counselor Doctor John Hudson can be contacted at 660-349-0802. The Kansas City Vet Center offers phone counseling and tele-med at 816-753-1866. The VA Veterans Crisis Line is available by calling 1-800-273-8255 and pressing 1. A text message can be sent to 838255 to connect with a VA responder. Telecommunications Device for the Deaf users can call 1-800-799-4889.
