Veteran Suicide Prevention & Awareness
Veteran suicide takes a toll on the veteran and the entire family. Veterans Outreach Center joins with the VA and our community partners to support all veterans - because one life lost is one life too many.
Veteran Suicide - A National Crisis
Statistics tell a story:
There were more than 6,000 veteran suicides each year from 2008 to 2016.
In 2016, the suicide rate was 1.5 times greater for veterans than for non-veteran adults, after adjusting for age and gender.
The suicide rate for veterans ages 18–34 increased substantially, from 40.4 suicide deaths per 100,000 population in 2015 to 45 suicide deaths per 100,000 population in 2016.
From 2005 to 2016, the number of suicides among women Veterans increased.
From 2005 to 2016, the woman Veteran population increased.
After adjusting for age, the rate of suicide among women Veterans was higher than the rate among non-Veteran women.
View the 2019 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report
Know When Action is Needed
Sometimes, a crisis may involve thoughts of suicide. Learn to recognize these warning signs:
Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves
Looking for a way to kill themselves, like searching online or buying a gun
Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
Talking about being a burden to others
Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly
Sleeping too little or too much
Withdrawing or isolating themselves
Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
Extreme mood swings
Join Our Mission to Help
Arm yourself with knowledge. These resources are available to anyone who wants to join the battle against veteran suicide:
Air Force Magazine - Stand Down to Address Growing Suicide Rate
Contact Veterans Outreach Center where help is available and hope is abundant - 585.546.1081
The holidays can be a particularly difficult time for current military members, veterans, and family. Click the button below to see additional helpful tips for service members and their families during the holidays.