Mental health services remain difficult to access for many disabled veterans across California, according to advocates and veterans familiar with the system. While awareness of mental health needs has grown, access to consistent, timely care continues to lag behind demand.
Veterans living with service-connected mental health conditions often face extended wait times, limited provider availability, and challenges navigating referral systems—barriers that can delay treatment when it is most needed.
Ongoing Access Challenges
Veterans report difficulty securing appointments for counseling, therapy, and psychiatric care, particularly in regions with provider shortages. Rural areas and underserved communities face additional obstacles, including transportation barriers and limited local resources.
For veterans managing conditions such as PTSD, depression, or anxiety, interruptions in care can have significant consequences for daily functioning and overall well-being.
Staffing and Capacity Concerns
Healthcare administrators have cited workforce shortages and increased demand as ongoing challenges. While some facilities have expanded telehealth options, advocates note that virtual care is not a complete solution for all veterans.
“Telehealth can help, but it doesn’t replace in-person care for everyone,” said one advocate familiar with veterans’ mental health services. “Access has to be reliable, not just available in theory.”
The Impact on Disabled Veterans
The Impact on Disabled Veterans
Calls for Sustained Attention
Advocates are calling for long-term investment in mental health infrastructure, improved coordination between agencies, and clearer communication with veterans seeking care.
As discussions around funding and reform continue, veterans stress the importance of focusing on outcomes rather than announcements.
DAVCA will continue reporting on access to mental health services and the systems responsible for supporting disabled veterans across California.
