Service members and veterans have a higher risk of suicide due to occupational exposure to traumatic experiences, easier access to firearms, and social stigma related to seeking treatment. Having a mental illness, a history of alcohol or drug misuse, social isolation, can also increase the risk of suicide for service members and veterans.

To reduce suicide risk and improve mental wellness, individuals and organizations can work to end stigma by talking about mental health and supporting peer and other mental health networks and programs. We can also reduce access to potentially dangerous household items, like firearms, when people are in crisis.

Source: Suicide Prevention, Office of Veterans Affairs