This applies even if the individual isnt enrolled in the VA system.
Veterans tend to be at high risk ofmental health challenges and substance use issues.
That is what we are trained to do."
Mark Edward Atkinson / Getty Images
“That often leads to feeling useless and may then result in suicidal ideation,” he says.
Too many veterans are without social support and going through something like a serious illness alone can be devastating.
Thankfully, it was only suicidal ideation, not actual suicide attempts that rose."
Merrill elucidates, “Supporting veterans saves lives.
Veterans who reported a decrease in suicidal thoughts also reported an increase in perceived social support during the pandemic.
Veterans who have had COVID-19 are at higher risk of suicide.
Times of illness that affect the body and brain are particularly important times to support veterans.”
“All of these raise the risk of death by suicide,” he says.
“Since suicidal thoughts and suicide attempts can be stigmatized, the results may not be representative.
It would be interesting to assess a hard endpoint such as documented suicide attempts.
However, thats why its important to do the science, to do the studies.
Our intuitive notions do not always match what the data say.
“This could include meditation and yoga practices.
Veterans remain at high risk of mental health challenges due to trauma.
Given their service to the country, they deserve adequate services to support their quality of life.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
January 13, 2023.
2021;78(11):1218. doi:10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2021.2332
