North Texas veterans and their families have a new resource on their doorstep. On Friday, September 18, Dallas College will hold a free Veterans Mental Health Summit from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at its Mountain View Campus, 4849 W. Illinois Ave., with a live‑stream option for those who cannot attend in person.
What attendees can expect
Check‑in, breakfast and a resource fair open at 8 a.m. The day’s schedule includes sessions on suicide prevention, recovery strategies and how to navigate a VA disability claim. In the afternoon, participants can join creative‑writing and photography workshops, and a discussion led by chaplains that explores spiritual narrative for veterans.
Who is invited
The summit is organized by Dallas College’s Military‑Connected Services and Counseling and Psychological Services, in partnership with the VA North Texas Health Care System and regional veteran‑service organizations. Military spouses, family members, transitioning service members, students, employers and health‑care professionals are all welcome. Attendees may select individual sessions if they cannot stay for the full day.
Registration and accommodations
Both in‑person and virtual participants must register online. After submitting the form, virtual attendees will receive a livestream link by email. The registration portal also allows users to request accessibility accommodations, specify dietary needs for the provided lunch, and request transportation from another Dallas College campus on a first‑come, first‑served basis.
Additional resources for veterans
Beyond the summit, veterans in North Texas can reach the VA North Texas Mental Health One Number at 214‑857‑4279 for direct access to mental‑health specialists. The VA system offers inpatient and outpatient care, telehealth appointments, psychiatry, psychology, treatment for addictive disorders and assistance for veterans experiencing or at risk of homelessness. It also provides transition and care‑management services for returning service members.
For immediate crisis support, the Veterans Crisis Line is available 24/7: call 988 and press 1, text 838‑255, or start an online chat. The service is free and does not require enrollment in VA benefits or health care.
Community context
The summit aligns with broader September efforts to connect North Texans with mental‑health resources during Suicide Prevention Month. Local organizations have been hosting educational events and reminding the public of year‑round crisis support, as previously reported by The Dallas Express.
Questions about participation can be directed to [email protected]. The event underscores Dallas College’s commitment to supporting those who have served, reducing stigma around mental health and strengthening the network of care for veterans and their families.
Original reporting: WBAP News/Talk (Dallas-Fort Worth) — read the source article.
