The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services recently announced an initiative aimed at supporting the mental health and recovery needs of its veteran population through enhanced digital resources.
In partnership with CHESS Health and Diamond Mind, LLC, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) launched its Connections: Recover Support app, which provides 24/7 access to trained peers, moderated online communities, daily check-ins and proven coping tools to support recovery.
"We are committed to building a mental health system that serves all North Carolinians, including the many veterans that call our state home," said North Carolina Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai. "Veterans face a distinct set of challenges when transitioning to civilian life, and these often increase the risk of substance use and mental health issues. We must remain committed in our service to them just as they committed to serving our nation."
The NCDHHS sponsors the free resource, which is available in both English and Spanish.
North Carolina is home to more than 615,000 veterans, making up about 7.3 percent of the adult population in the state. The partnership with CHESS Health and Diamond Mind will bring culturally relevant and strengths-based support, focusing on their positive attributes and skills for military veterans throughout the state, according to NCDHHS.
CHESS Health, which previously partnered with NCDHHS in 2024 to support individuals recovering from substance use disorders across the state, is known to be a leading digital health innovator.
Diamond Mind was founded by retired Marine Corps pilot Garret Biss - a dedicated advocate for veterans with a specialization in mental health, resilience and recovery coaching. After facing his own challenges with anxiety, depression and addiction following his military service, Biss developed a unique approach to recovery that emphasizes self-worth, identity and the inherent strengths veterans bring to civilian life.
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, North Carolina had 209 veteran deaths by suicide in 2022, which is the most recent year for which data is available. The suicide rate of 30.4 deaths per 100,000 is lower than the national rate for veterans, but still significantly higher than the rate for non-veterans.
"Veterans deserve mental health and recovery services that honor their unique experiences and treat them with dignity and respect," said Kelly Crosbie, Director of the NCDHHS Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Use Services. "This initiative strengthens our statewide commitment to veteran-centered, accessible care and underscores the vital role communities play in supporting those who have served."
To support the initiative’s launch, North Carolina veterans are invited to participate in dedicated peer-led support huddles on Nov. 10. The gathering will take place within the Connections app, which will provide veterans with a safe space for authentic conversation with peers. To participate, download the Connections: Recovery Support App.
“Our veterans have served with courage and commitment, and they deserve a mental health system that serves them with the same dedication,” said Jocelyn Mitnaul Mallette, Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. “This initiative ensures veterans have the tools and trusted connections they need to continue thriving at home. By linking digital recovery support with veteran-centered care, we’re closing gaps, reducing stigma and reminding every veteran that help and hope are always within reach.”