Posted on Jan 21, 2018

The following blog addresses President Trump’s recent attempt to expand mental health services for veterans and explains how veterans suffering from mental health challenges can gain disability benefits. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact the Veterans’ 24/7 Crisis Line right away. Just call 1-800-273-8255 and press 1.

On January 9th, the Trump Administration issued a new Executive Order, titled Presidential Executive Order on Supporting Our Veterans During Their Transition From Uniformed Service to Civilian Life,  in an attempt to curb the alarming number of veteran suicides.

President Trump’s Executive Order Provides Mental Health Care to 100% of Veterans Transitioning to Civilian LifePresident Trump’s Executive Order Provides Mental Health Care to 100% of Veterans Transitioning to Civilian Life

The Executive Order dramatically expands veterans’ access to mental health care by providing coverage to 100% of military members who are transitioning into civilian life. Before the Executive Order, only 40% of veterans had mental health coverage.

In recognition of the particular vulnerability veterans experience during the first year of civilian life, the Executive Order states that the provision of mental-health services during that time should be emphasized.

Automatic Enrollment in the New Program Begins March 9th, 2018

The new policy will take effect as of March 9th, 2018. At that point, all servicemembers will be automatically enrolled as they transition into civilian life.

Some Remain Skeptical of the New Policy

The lack of details in the Executive Order is concerning to some, particularly in light of the fact that the Department of Veterans' Affairs' mental health program is already dramatically understaffed. According to the Executive Order, a status report detailing the effectiveness of the new policy will be compiled within 180 days. We will provide updates as they become available.

Disability Benefits May Help Veterans Suffering From PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, TBI, or MST

Disability Benefits May Help Veterans Suffering From PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, TBI, or MST


While we recognize that President Trump’s Executive Order is a step in the right direction, there is still much more to be done. One often-overlooked part of the solution is making sure all veterans can access the disability compensation they deserve. By securing compensation, veterans struggling with PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, TBI, MST-related challenges, or any other service-connected disability can rest assured that their basic needs will be met. This allows them to refocus their time and energy on what matters most: accessing mental-health services.

If you are a veteran with a service-connected disability, we encourage you to apply for benefits right away. If you receive a denial or an unacceptable rating decision, don’t panic – we are here to help you. Once you receive a decision from your regional office, send us a note or give us a call at (877) 629-1712.