Every now and then, it’s worth revisiting a VA program that tends to raise an eyebrow or two when people first hear about it: Whole Health. If your first thought is something along the lines of “Is this about hugging trees and eating granola?”—you’re not alone. But in reality, it’s a bit more practical (and a lot more accessible) than that.
VA’s Whole Health approach is designed to complement—not replace—traditional medical care. It still includes your primary care provider, prescriptions, and standard treatments. The difference is that it also asks a simple question that sometimes gets lost in the shuffle: What matters most to you?
Instead of focusing only on what’s wrong, Whole Health looks at the bigger picture. That can include things like sleep, nutrition, movement, stress management, and even social connections. In other words, it recognizes that health isn’t just about appointments and medications—it’s also about daily habits and quality of life.
Now, this doesn’t mean anyone is being told to swap out prescribed medications for herbal tea. There’s no one-size-fits-all plan, and it’s certainly not medical advice being handed out in a yoga class. What it does mean is that Veterans have access to additional tools and resources that can support their overall well-being.
Sometimes those tools are very simple. It might be watching a short VA video on breathing techniques to help lower stress. It could be exploring recipes aimed at improving heart health or managing cholesterol. For others, it may include structured programs like mindfulness training, health coaching, or guided exercise plans.
One of the strengths of Whole Health is that it meets Veterans where they are. If someone wants to take small steps—like improving sleep or finding ways to manage day-to-day stress— that’s perfectly fine. If someone is interested in a more structured plan, that’s available too.
It’s also worth noting that participation is entirely optional. Veterans can choose what, if anything, they want to try. Think of Whole Health as an expanded toolbox rather than a replacement for what’s already working.
The practical takeaway here is awareness. Many Veterans simply don’t realize these resources exist. Whether you’re actively looking to make changes or just curious about what’s available, Whole Health offers options that go beyond the traditional appointment model.
If nothing else, it’s a reminder that health care doesn’t always have to be complicated. Sometimes, it starts with something as straightforward as taking a few minutes to breathe, move, or try something new—and seeing what works for you. For more information, talk to your VA health team or visit https://www.va.gov/wholehealth/.
Brad Anderson and Melissa Crandall, Lake County Veterans Service Officers, 218.834.8326 or cvso@co.lake.mn.us
Karen Christianson, Cook County Veterans Service Officer, 218.387.3639, or karen.christianson@co.cook.mn.us
