Military & Veteran Mental Health: Understanding, Support, and Recovery
Evidence-based information, resources, and treatment options for service members, veterans, and families.
By The Numbers
Veterans are ~1.5x more likely to die by suicide than non-veterans
Suicide rate is 34.7 per 100,000 veterans vs 17.1 general population
Roughly 1 in 3 Veterans report symptoms of depression, 1 in 5 reporting severe symptoms
Roughly 17–24 veterans die by suicide daily
30-60% of veterans report having experienced a potentially morally injurious event
PTSD and moral injury are linked to higher suicide risk and comorbid conditions
Common Mental Health Conditions
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): symptoms include recurring experiences of trauma (flashbacks, nightmares), avoidance, negative thoughts and mood, and hypervigilance. Caused by combat and non-combat trauma (e.g. military sexual trauma). PTSD is strongly associated with suicide risk.
Depression: symptoms include persistent sadness, loss of interest in pleasurable activities, and sleep disruptions. Depression can impact personal and professional functioning.
Anxiety Disorders: generalized anxiety, panic attacks or panic-like symptoms, hyperarousal, avoidance of certain situations that cause symptoms.
Substance Use Disorders: research shows alcohol has been involved in ~20% of veteran suicides.
Traumatic Brain Injury: impacts cognition and mood, can be caused by sudden blows to the heads during falls, concussive events, and blast waves.