Understanding Veteran Suicide: Mental Health Care and Suicide Prevention for Veterans

For many military service members, returning to civilian life is an adjustment, especially if they’ve been on active duty. Military service can be both mentally and physically demanding, with rigorous training schedules and long hours. However, transitioning to what's considered a slower-paced life can be challenging, which could be why veteran suicide remains a public health issue. This article discusses challenges for military veterans, the prevalence of veteran suicide, veteran support, and suicide prevention strategies.

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A look at veteran suicide and why awareness matters

Veteran suicide not only affects the individual but also their military community, family, friends, and loved ones. When someone dies by suicide, it could be an indicator that they’ve been suffering mentally, emotionally, or physically, which can be difficult for loved ones to comprehend. However, community members can raise awareness for veteran mental health to help prevent and address veteran suicide in the future. 

Supporting those transitioning from military to civilian life

Sometimes, mental health conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or traumatic brain injury (TBI) are misperceived as signs of weakness in the military community, which can prevent people from seeking help. One way to support veterans might be to contribute to initiatives that reduce stigma, improve veteran healthcare, and reduce other barriers to treatment. To begin supporting veterans, individuals can check out Veteran Affairs or the Veterans Health Administration.

Veterans experiencing a mental health crisis or in need of immediate care can reach out to the Veterans Crisis Line and/or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling 988.

What is the veteran suicide rate?

During their service, veterans may be exposed to significantly more stress and trauma than the average civilian. This could contribute to the high prevalence of suicide among veterans. In 2022, there were 6,407 suicides among veterans. Since the veteran firearm suicide rate is also disproportionately high, the need for targeted prevention strategies and flexible mental health care is considered urgent.

Suicide rate in military vs. civilian populations

In recent years, data suggests that the veteran suicide rate is disproportionately higher than the general population. Regardless of their age and gender, veterans are more likely to commit suicide than civilians. While service members gain resilience, discipline, and other positive traits during active duty, there can also be challenges to consider.

Risk factors for veteran suicide

Several risk factors can increase the risk of veteran suicide. Below are some risk factors to be aware of: 

• Combat exposure: Research suggests exposure to combat increases the risk of suicide, especially if attacked, ambushed, or directly responsible for the death of a noncombatant.
• Mental health conditions: PTSD, depression, and traumatic brain injury may be linked to both veterans and suicidal behaviors.
• Lack of economic resources: From unemployment to financial hardship or housing insecurity, integrating back into society after service can be difficult for a veteran.
• Ownership of lethal means: Firearm ownership can increase suicide risk for men and women.

The mental health challenges of military service

Like other demanding careers, military life may come with its fair share of challenges, including time apart from loved ones, exposure to traumatic or violent events, difficult life transitions, and, at times, community stigma surrounding mental health. However, military service can also provide individuals with a strong sense of direction and fulfillment. Stepping away from the military may sometimes result in a loss of purpose and identity, making the transition to civilian life especially challenging for many veterans.

Health conditions linked to veteran suicide

For some veterans, difficult life transitions – such as time away from loved ones – can lead to mental health symptoms such as loneliness, sadness, and anxiety. When symptoms become intense and persistent, individuals may develop a mental health condition like depression. In other cases, exposure to traumatic events – such as combat, death, or war-zone trauma – can lead to PTSD. Research suggests veterans with PTSD, depression, and other mental health conditions are more likely to die by suicide. 

How a supportive community can help veterans

Social and familial support can be beneficial for overall health, providing emotional support and a sense of belonging. However, returning from active military duty can be an unsettling change, and some veterans may not have social support systems to lean on. However, there are platforms available where veterans can support one another. 

Peer support for veteran health and suicide prevention

For military members, speaking with peers, fellow veterans, and others who understand what it means to serve can be especially valuable. Peers may provide a deeper level of understanding and empathy, rooted in shared experiences. Open conversations about mental health can also help reduce stigma within the veteran community. Research suggests that peer support activities enhance veteran health and well-being, highlighting the positive impact of peer-led interventions.

Suicide prevention strategies for veterans

With the support of military members, their friends, family, and the wider community, progress can be made towards preventing veteran suicide. Some effective strategies for veteran suicide prevention may include: 

• Reduce barriers to care for mental health services, including the cost of therapy and urgent care services.
• Create safe living environments for veterans by reducing firearm availability and ensuring veterans have safe, stable housing.
• Promote healthy connections by engaging veterans in peer-led activities such as group counseling, community events, or support networks.
• Strengthen health insurance policies by ensuring coverage for comprehensive mental health services, including therapy, crisis intervention, and long-term care.

How early intervention can help with suicide prevention

Early intervention measures can support veterans at a heightened risk of suicide. If symptoms such as withdrawal, hopelessness, or self-harm are suspected, reaching out to a therapist may be worthwhile. Early treatment can improve the likelihood of positive health outcomes and reduce long-term risk. Friends, family members, or veterans themselves can contact a mental health professional as soon as symptoms appear, helping to provide timely care. 

Online health care for veterans

Veterans may face barriers to in-person care, such as the financial burden of healthcare, the inability to travel to and from appointments, geographic limitations, or childcare and work conflicts. However, these barriers can be reduced by utilizing online therapy. Mental health care platforms such as BetterHelp connect individuals with therapists who can meet their needs. With a network of over 30,000 providers – including specialists in PTSD – therapists can help with symptoms, suicide prevention, and other mental health concerns. Individuals can attend sessions from the comfort of home, at an affordable rate, and at a time that suits them best.

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Does online mental health care work for PTSD?

Sometimes, veterans face prolonged stress and adversity, are exposed to traumatic events, or witness death or injury in combat environments. These experiences can heighten their risk for PTSD. Research from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs suggests that online therapy can be clinically effective for individuals experiencing PTSD, resulting in improvements in symptom reduction and overall quality of life.