Suicide Rates Among U.S. Soldiers

SOURCE www.usatoday.com
A Pentagon study revealed that U.S. soldiers were nearly nine times more likely to die by suicide than by enemy fire from 2014 to 2019. Suicide was the leading cause of death among active-duty soldiers during this period. The study highlighted the need for suicide prevention strategies within the military.

Key Points

  • Suicide was the leading cause of death among active-duty soldiers from 2014 to 2019
  • The Pentagon has implemented strategies to prevent suicides, including improving access to mental health counseling and promoting safe firearm storage
  • The rate of suicide among soldiers has been fluctuating in recent years

Pros

  • Increased awareness of the issue of suicide among U.S. soldiers
  • Implementation of suicide prevention strategies within the military
  • Efforts to improve mental health support and reduce stigma

Cons

  • High rate of suicide among active-duty soldiers
  • Challenges in curbing suicide, especially in certain locations like Alaska
  • Significant number of suicide deaths by gunshot wounds