Suicide Prevention

According to the VA, suicide risk remains elevated for years after a transition from active duty service.

The suicide numbers are rising. There was an 1.8% increase in veteran suicides from 2020 to 2021 (the most recent data), after this number dropped the two years prior.

A staggering number of Global War On Terror veterans have dealt with mental and physical wounds, with studies showing they are taking their lives at a higher rate than veterans of previous wars. And according to 2023 MRC research, 53% of the American public think the government has not effectively addressed or assisted veterans with suicide prevention.

Veteran suicide is tied to mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress (PTS), traumatic brain injury (TBI), Depression, and substance abuse disorders. But veteran suicide can’t be solved through counseling and prescription medicine alone. This approach is far too short-sighted. Veterans need a holistic approach that also includes employment retention programs, improvements in transition assistance, and greater funding for community providers specializing in veteran needs.