U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs CMV - News Update

Physical distance is important for everyone’s health right now, but it can also impact our mental, emotional and physical health. Now, more than ever, it’s important to stay connected to ourselves. Meditation is a tool that can cultivate present moment attention and awareness, allowing us to take steps toward creatively connecting with others. One way to increase connection with ourselves or with others is through a Loving Kindness Meditation. [From VAntage Point]

VA has always been here for Veterans, and we will continue to be here for you during the COVID-19 crisis. We will see and treat any Veteran — even if you are not yet enrolled in VA health care — but please call us first. Here is a message from Dr. Richard Stone, Executive in Charge of the Veterans Health Administration and a former U.S. Army combat physician. [From VAntage Point]

With the unforeseen challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, how we deal with and adapt to change will determine our ability to weather the pandemic. Taking care of your physical health is important, but so is taking care of your Whole Health—adding emotional, mental and spiritual to the physical. [From VAntage Point]

The next time you need to see your VA doctor, instead of going to the clinic, why not just stay home and use your smartphone or computer? [From VAntage Point]

The 442nd Regimental Combat Team, composed almost entirely of second-generation American soldiers of Japanese ancestry, was known as “Go for Broke.” Going for broke is thought to be a Hawaiian gambling slang that means to risk everything for a big win. During World War II, after the attack on Pearl Harbor, the men of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team distinguished themselves with honor. [From VAntage Point]

During the COVID-19 crisis, VA is asking Veterans to lead their neighbors and communities in practicing social distancing. It’s tough, but it’s what we need to do to defeat this virus. Also, please consider using VA telemedicine for your care and medication needs, to help keep our fellow Veterans safe. [From VAntage Point]

Providing quality healthcare to Veterans with mental health issues is complex, especially given that there are some delays in receiving care from the VA system and Veterans have a wider choice of healthcare options under the Veterans Choice Act/Veteran Community Care program. A recent study asked new post-9/11 Veterans who had screened positive for one or more “probable” mental health problems which healthcare programs and services they had used since separating from active duty service. [From Penn State News]