For many veterans, the transition from military service to civilian life can be an isolating experience. The camaraderie once found in service may be difficult to replace, leaving some veterans feeling alone or unsupported—especially those who are older or managing health challenges. In response, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has launched a unique initiative: Veteran Buddy Link, a program designed to connect veterans seeking friendship and emotional support.
What Is Veteran Buddy Link?
Veteran Buddy Link is a national VA program that offers veterans the opportunity to build meaningful peer-to-peer connections through structured social support. Whether they’re looking for companionship, someone who understands their military experience, or simply a friendly voice to check in, this initiative provides a bridge to community and connection.
Veterans can choose to participate as:
- Callers, reaching out to fellow veterans on a regular basis to provide friendly conversation and encouragement.
- Recipients, receiving regular check-in calls to help combat loneliness and promote emotional well-being.
These calls are not therapy sessions or crisis lines—they are designed to be informal and supportive, helping veterans feel heard, valued, and less alone.
Combating Loneliness in the Veteran Community
Loneliness and isolation are known risk factors for depression, substance abuse, and even suicidal ideation—especially among older adults or veterans who live alone. According to the VA, social connection plays a vital role in improving mental and emotional health outcomes.
The Veteran Buddy Link program is a proactive step toward addressing these challenges. Veterans who participate in similar social support programs report:
- Improved mood and outlook
- Stronger sense of purpose
- Greater willingness to seek out additional VA resources
- Reduced feelings of anxiety and isolation
Buddy Link offers a low-pressure, judgment-free space to talk, listen, and share—sometimes all a person needs to feel a little more grounded.
How to Join the Program
The program is open to all veterans enrolled in VA health care. Veterans interested in receiving or making regular calls can contact their local VA or ask their care provider for a referral to the Veteran Buddy Link program.
Participants are carefully matched based on shared experiences, interests, or communication preferences to ensure that the relationship feels organic and supportive. In some cases, these initial phone check-ins grow into lasting friendships that continue well beyond the program’s structure.
Veterans Guide Is Here to Help
At Veterans Guide, we understand that healing after military service involves more than medical treatment or disability compensation—it’s also about feeling connected, supported, and understood. Programs like Veteran Buddy Link are an important complement to the work we do helping veterans with disability claims and benefits.
If you’re a veteran who feels isolated, overwhelmed, or frustrated with the VA system, know that you’re not alone. Whether you need help appealing a denied claim, increasing your disability rating, or learning what benefits are available to you, Veterans Guide is here to help.
To learn more about how we can help, contact us today for more information.
