ARKANSAS, USA — From October 16-20, a national campaign called Buddy Check Week is encouraging veterans to connect or reconnect with each other in an effort to improve mental health in the community.
This year is the first Buddy Check Week, which challenges veterans to talk to 10 buddies during the week.
Another goal of the initiative is to increase access to U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) resources.
Key takeaways of Buddy Check Week involve taking a pledge to talk to 10 Veteran friends from Oct. 16-20, whether that means checking in, catching up, or just having a friendly conversation.
Another message is to encourage veterans to take a training that helps recognize the signs of distress and to learn more about resources that can be recommended to fellow veterans if needed.
"No one can replace the trust built between Veterans who served together. Don't let that bond fade, reconnect," the VA said. The link to help find fellow Veterans in your unit can be found here.
A quick resource for Veterans who want to get help for their mental health is the Veteran Crisis Line, which is available 24/7. Dial 988 then Press 1, Chat Online, or Text 838255.