Memorial Day specifically honors those who died in active military service. This year, NEI would like to expand the remembrance to include those veterans and active duty service members who died by suicide. Veterans and active duty patients in the USA die by suicide at a 1.5 increased rate compared with the civilian age-matched cohort.
As a healthcare provider, consider taking special notice of your patients who are veterans or active duty service members. You may be the only caregiver poised to recognize suicide risk in your patients who have served. Consider always asking patients, “Have you ever served in the military?” or “Have you ever worn the uniform?”. Veterans and active duty patients have a much higher incidence of firearm suicide than other populations. Therefore, lethal means counseling and communication with family members when possible about making the home environment safe, especially during periods of higher risk are all the more critical.
Cultural and experiential factors such as experiences emphasizing self-sufficiency
and strength can be barriers to overcome among military and veteran patients who are experiencing distress. Help remind military personnel that strength includes getting
help when you need it, and also remind them that we function better as a team than solo.
Lastly, thank you to those who have given their lives in the service of this country.
Resources for Veterans and Military Suicide Prevention