Veterans, especially those who experienced combat and were deployed overseas, are at an elevated risk of mental health conditions and the possibility of suicidal behavior. Research has found that those who have served since the 9-11 attacks are especially vulnerable. One in five veterans experience mental health issues including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), major depression (MD), and alcohol use disorder (AUD).
Bleak Picture
If left untreated, any or all of these conditions can lead to chronic and damaging consequences in the person’s physical, social, mental, emotional, neurological and spiritual health. Impairment may occur in relationships, careers, parenting, and overall quality of life for the vet and his or her family and friends. The worst-case scenario is the tragic loss of life due to suicide.
Some Quick Statistics
Current U.S. Census reports around 18 million veterans and over 2 million active-duty and reserve service members. Beginning with the 9-11 attacks, 2.8 million active-duty American military personnel deployed to Iraq, Afghanistan and beyond, leading to increased numbers of combat vets in the population. Over 6% of the U.S. population have served or are serving in the military. Suicide rates are higher among veterans vs. non-veterans and some experts predicts that suicide rates may double for veterans.
Common Mental Health Conditions
Some of the most commonly diagnosed mental health condition among veterans include:
- Post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD)
- Major depression (MD)
- Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
- Alcohol dependence
- Poor adjustment to civilian life
- Stress and strains within interpersonal relationships
- Sudden outbursts of anger and frustration
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
Beyond these conditions, many veterans deal with other serious issues. Some have been evicted from their homes and are living on the streets. They are essentially homeless. Some are unemployed for various reasons including addiction and physical handicaps. Other veterans may live in perpetual feelings of guilt and shame based on their military experiences.
The Importance of Intervention and Services for Veterans
If predictive risk factors are accurately identified, clients at risk can benefit from suicide intervention approaches. When working with veterans, it’s important for mental health and other healthcare professionals to assess for suicidal ideation, intention, planning as well as a history of suicidal behaviors.
Delicate subjects that should be addressed include:
- Current mood
- Leaving a suicide note
- Talking about intent to die
- Assessing social support systems
- Current problems
Important questions to ask include:
- How is your health?
- Are you experiencing any health problems right now?
- How does your health affect you?
- How does your current state of health make you feel?
If the veteran has experienced the recent death of a loved one, it may be helpful to ask questions such as “Who among your family and friends have you lost?”, “When did this happen?” and “How has this affected you?”.
Evidence-Based Practices of Veterans with Mental Health Conditions
Veterans who are dealing with serious mental health conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder, major depression and alcohol use disorder may benefit from various forms of therapy including:
- Prolonged exposure therapy
- Cognitive processing therapy
- Acceptance and commitment therapy
- Mindfulness-based therapies
- Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing
- Brief eclectic psychotherapy
Final Thoughts on Suicide and Veterans
It’s a sad and frightening thought that those men and women who served our nation may be suffering chronic and terrible mental health conditions, or worse, taking their own lives. Beyond their mental health, some veterans face daily stressors like homelessness and poverty. On a brighter note, there is help and hope for them. Professionals in mental health and senior care can play a vital role in identifying those at risk of self-harm and connect them to the appropriate services and care. Saving one life is well worth the effort.