VETERAN SUICIDE: ADDRESSING THE INTENSIFYING BATTLE

Course overview

Nearly one military service veteran dies by suicide each hour; 22 die every day. According to the Veterans Health Administration (VHA), at least 1,250 veterans attempt suicide each month. Experts believe these stark figures are underestimated. The exact number of veterans who die of suicide is unknown. The Department of Defense and VHA have been confronted with this tragedy for decades; its devastating effects reach far beyond the veteran. The aftermath for military and civilian communities is traumatic. Veteran suicide in the U.S. is an under-reported epidemic in need of attention from all healthcare professionals. Increasing awareness and providing greater access to services for those who have served their country can help reduce veteran suicide rates.