World Mental Health Day: Combatting Loneliness and Social Isolation Among Veterans

PHOENIX (October 09, 2026) – World Mental Health Day is Oct. 10, and TriWest Healthcare Alliance (TriWest) is proud to be a committed partner with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to offer helpful and actionable information that helps Veterans’ mental health and wellness.

The annual observance day is an ideal opportunity to highlight a condition Veterans and military-connected individuals often face – loneliness and social isolation after Service which if left unaddressed can become chronic.

According to VA, many vulnerable or struggling Veterans do not receive regular visitors or phone calls and their isolation makes them more likely to arrive at emergency departments.

They are also more likely to use crisis lines and develop serious clinical conditions such as depression, substance abuse issues, and suicide risk.

As a strong supporter of Veterans, TriWest joins VA in emphasizing that Veterans should be aware that loneliness can impact them in many ways.

Factors such as a difficult transition to civilian life, or a physical or mental health issue that makes it difficult to connect with others can increase the likelihood of loneliness.

On World Mental Health Day, highlighting the risk of loneliness and isolation among Veterans calls for actionable steps they can take for improved mental wellness and well-being.

Get Support: Please read this new and informative Healthy Homefront^® article on combatting loneliness and social isolation among Veterans.