Question: Best VA resources for mental health?

I've been putting off getting help for a while now, but I think it's time.

Dealing with some stuff from my deployments that I thought I had handled, but it's been affecting my sleep and my relationships.

Can anyone share:

• How to get started with VA mental health services?
• What to expect at the first appointment?
• Any tips for navigating the system?
• Good resources outside the VA as well?

I know I'm not alone in this, but it still feels hard to ask. Thanks in advance to anyone who can point me in the right direction.