Rick Patrick
ECB Publishing, Inc.
For those who have served in the military, life after service can carry its own set of unique challenges. Some of these challenges, such as post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can lead to serious issues if not addressed. In extreme circumstances, this can even result in the Veteran taking his or her own life. According to a report from the U.S. Department of Veteran’s Affairs, a total of 6,407 Veterans died by suicide in 2022, the latest year for which information is available. The Veteran suicide rate is approximately double that of non-veterans. This is especially startling for female veterans, who take their own lives at a rate 92 percent higher than non-veteran females. Those Veterans who separated from the military within the last year are at a higher risk of suicide, according to the report.
There are several resources available to those who have served. These resources can help address several of the risk factors that can lead to suicide.
- The National Call Center for Homeless Veterans is available at (877) 424-3838, then press 1. You may also visit their website at www.veterscrisisline.net/get-help-now/chat.
- The Women Veterans Call Center is available at (855) VA-Woman (829-6636). The website is www.womenshealth.va.gov.
- The War Vet Call Center can be reached at (877) 927-8387.
- Mental health help can also be found by contacting Real Warriors at (866) 966-1020.
If you know a Veteran, or if you are a Veteran in need of help, please do not hesitate to take advantage of the help that is available by contacting one of these organizations.