What would you do if you suspected (or downright knew) that the veteran in your life needed professional mental health services? How would you get your loved one the care he or she needed, especially if they are resistant to the idea? Furthermore, how would you initiate a conversation with them about this particular subject matter?

The reality is that many military family members and/or caregivers are faced with this situation.

If, by chance, you happen to be one of them, there's an excellent resource called Coaching Into Care that you can turn to for help and guidance.

About Coaching Into Care
Coaching Into Care is a VA sponsored telephone-based service that's designed to answer your questions about how to get your veteran the help and care he or she needs. For example, they assist callers by:

• Providing suggestions about how to encourage a veteran to seek professional mental health services through the VA.
• Offering ideas about how to approach the subject of suicide if the caller thinks their veteran may be thinking about harming himself/herself.
• Educate callers about how to help their veteran enroll in VA care.

In addition to the above referenced services, Coaching Into Care also has numerous resources available for caregivers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Coaching Into Care

Question: Is there a fee to use Coaching Into Care?
Answer: No. Coaching Into Care is a free service that is provided through the VA.

Question: Do I need to be an immediate family member of a veteran in order to use this service?

Answer: No. Coaching Into Care welcomes calls from a veteran's family members, friends and caregivers. Essentially, if you're concerned about a veteran and need suggestions on how to get him or her the care you think they need, Coaching Into Care can help.

Question: Is this service confidential?
Answer: Yes, with the exception of situations where they must take action in order to keep you, the veteran or others safe, all of your information is kept confidential.

Question: Is there a limit as to how many times I can call?
Answer: No, there is no limit to the number of times you can call and talk to a representative.

Question: How long do calls usually last?
Answer: Each call is unique and therefore lasts for as little or as long as necessary. However, on average, most calls last 20 to 30 minutes.

To learn more about Coaching Into Care please visit their Web site, Facebook page or follow them on Twitter. You may also phone them Monday thru Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m (Eastern Time) at 1-888-823-7458; e-mail them at coachingintocare@va.gov.

Please note, if you call during a time that's outside of their normal operating hours (which is referenced above) a staff member will take your contact information and the nature of your questions and someone will call you back on the next business day during their regular business hours.

If you're unsure about whether or not you should call Coaching Into Care, you may want to take this confidential self quiz to help you make a decision that best suits you and your loved one.