Hidden haven in Hollywood has been saving veterans for years through community and connection

HOLLYWOOD, LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- PTSD and the rigors of deployment aren't the only mental health challenges veterans face.

The struggles of former servicemen and women come in many forms.

In one of the most famous neighborhoods in Hollywood, there is a hidden treasure many veterans cherish because of its history and heart.

Below the Hollywood Bowl you'll find American Legion Post 43.

"The building was completed in 1929," said Post 43 Commander Monica Nichelson.

This bomb shelter leads to an art deco bar that once hosted stars of the silver screen.

"People like Clark Gable apparently used to sit over at that corner," she said.

The bar remains popular for filming.

Egyptian revival architecture makes Post 43 a sought-after venue. It's all part of a business model designed with one goal.

"It funds our missions so we can go out. We can help the community, state and nation. We can help any veteran that needs assistance," said Jeff Daly, a member of Post 43.

"The first 90 days after coming off of service. You're more likely to suffer from depression. You're more likely to contemplate suicide," said another member, Rocio Palomero.

In 2022, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs reported 6,407 U.S. veterans took their own lives.

"They can serve domestically and never deploy, and they can still have things that really affect them for the rest of their lives," Daly said.

Many female veterans suffer from a unique set of mental health challenges.

"I know fewer women who were not assaulted in the military than who were," said Nichelson.

Nichelson was assaulted by four men while she was in the military.

"Some people get into drugs and alcohol and self-abuse and whatnot. And that for me turned into morbid obesity. I just ate myself crazy," she said.

After years of suffering alone, Nichelson found help and camaraderie at Post 43.

Today she's the commander and she champions the American Legion's suicide prevention program "Be the One." In this program, veterans reach out to each other.

"I got to know so many of our members on the phone before I met them in person, and I got some people to come in," Nichelson said.

Besides mental health services, members say the key to healing is finding community.

"And that is exactly what I found in the American Legion," said Palermo.

During the Vietnam War, about 8.5% of the U.S. population was serving in the military. Now, post 9/11, that number has shrunk to 4.5%, which means veterans have a much smaller number of people they can relate to.

"We have to do a better job of reaching out. We have to do a better job of adding value to the membership," Daily said.

"To me that means taking care of my fellow vets," said Nichelson.