Suicide Rate Continues Rise in Military

By Kira Margoshes on May 24, 2013

There is almost nothing more tragic than hearing that a loved one has been lost in the line of duty. However, for military families everywhere, there is an even greater tragedy that has become a very real enemy in recent years. The suicide rate of enlisted military personnel has shown a steady rise, with a climax in 2012, with a record high of 350. Even more shocking than the number itself, is the time in which it was reached. Only ten years previously, the number was half of what it is today. The big question everyone wants to know is: What is the catalyst that has pushed these numbers higher and higher over the years? Like most things in life, the answer isn’t black and white. What is evident and should be made clear is that there is not one “variable” (including deployment) which promotes or exacerbates this suicidal trend. There are many hurdles which veterans and active military personnel face including mental disorders, poverty, past histories of drug abuse, etc. The key component in addressing this wide variety of issues is the understanding that there will not be a “blanket solution” (one answer that will fix all problems).

One obvious difficulty for military personnel is the adjustment back into society as civilians once they have completed their contracts. The differences which exist between civilian life and that of the military are great, and many do not understand how this re-adjustment could be frustrating if not painfully difficult. The mental transition from being under constant duress to freedom and peace is impossible to imagine. This can often lead into another large problem. Once an individual realizes or must confront the reality that they may  have a mental disorder, there is usually little to no inclination to seek assistance or guidance. It is not uncommon that many military personnel refuse to admit that they have a mental disorder as a result of combat or service. Active individuals are by no means alone in this. Veterans who suffer from a wide variety of conditions (both physical and mental) are some of the last to ask for help. PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder), has been found in a significant number of both veterans and active duty individuals and plays a large role in the life a person can lead after he/she ends their military career. Varying degrees of this disorder ranging from night terrors to sound/light sensitivity all effect the “normalcy” with which persons are able to cope with society post-war. Though it may seem inconceivable to someone on the outside, the act of asking for help and reaching out (especially when it pertains to any type of mental issue) can be seen as a sign of weakness to fellow military members. Steps in recent years have been taken to build a more accepting and opening environment, in the hopes that it will encourage more men and women to step forward and seek professional help, rather than trying to treat themselves or continue to harbor their condition. Different lifestyles and choices (to drink, to use drugs, etc.) can also put people at a higher or lower suicide-risk rate. Even a condition or lifestyle choice that was made pre-enlistment can be a factor in the post-war and post-military life. Various accounts from families which have first hand experience with military related suicides show that despite diverse circumstances, suicide can be present anywhere with anyone. This kind of evidence should promote the immediate and continual attentions of those who have the power to shape and assist individuals who have just finished their military commitments to ensure their mental and physical stability past the ends of their military careers.

Continued civilian aid and assistance in adapting to the “home life” is only a small gesture. This being said, it should not be one that requires multiple deaths to draw attention to the obvious lack there of in the status quo. The well-being and continual care of those who have put their lives on the line to uphold the values and peoples of this country should be a prime topic. No veteran or military personnel should have to face extreme poverty, homelessness, or the inability to provide nourishment and care for their family. What does it say about this country if we cannot even protect our own who have risked their utmost to protect us?

More details and information can be found at NYTimes: Baffling Rise in Suicides Plagues U.S. Military 

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