Need to talk about the tragedy? Posted On: Friday, Nov. 6 2009 05:07 AM Various agencies exist for the sole purpose of counseling and preventing tragedies like Thursday's shooting at Fort Hood.

While organizations like the Gold Star program offer support for those who experience loss, others offer support to soldiers returning from or preparing for deployment.

The following are hot lines where soldiers, veterans and their families can reach out for help:

Defense Centers of Excellence for Psychological Health and Traumatic Brain Injury (DCoE)

866-966-1020

Military One Source 1-800-342-9647

The VA Veterans' Crisis Intervention Hot line

1-888-899-9377

Veteran Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Hot line

1-800-273-TALK (8255)

Press 1 to be connected immediately to VA suicide prevention and mental health service professionals.