Veteran Suicide Prevention & Awareness

 
 

Veteran suicide takes a toll on the veteran and the entire family. Veterans Outreach Center joins with the VA and our community partners to support all veterans - because one life lost is one life too many.

Veteran Suicide - A National Crisis

Statistics tell a story:

  • There were more than 6,000 veteran suicides each year from 2008 to 2016.

  • In 2016, the suicide rate was 1.5 times greater for veterans than for non-veteran adults, after adjusting for age and gender.

  • The suicide rate for veterans ages 18–34 increased substantially, from 40.4 suicide deaths per 100,000 population in 2015 to 45 suicide deaths per 100,000 population in 2016.

  • From 2005 to 2016, the number of suicides among women Veterans increased.

  • From 2005 to 2016, the woman Veteran population increased.

  • After adjusting for age, the rate of suicide among women Veterans was higher than the rate among non-Veteran women.

  • View the 2019 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report

Know When Action is Needed

Sometimes, a crisis may involve thoughts of suicide. Learn to recognize these warning signs:

  • Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves

  • Looking for a way to kill themselves, like searching online or buying a gun

  • Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live

  • Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain

  • Talking about being a burden to others

  • Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs

  • Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly

  • Sleeping too little or too much

  • Withdrawing or isolating themselves

  • Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge

  • Extreme mood swings

Join Our Mission to Help

Arm yourself with knowledge. These resources are available to anyone who wants to join the battle against veteran suicide:

The holidays can be a particularly difficult time for current military members, veterans, and family. Click the button below to see additional helpful tips for service members and their families during the holidays.