Serving In The Military Comes With A Great Deal Of Stress

Serving In The Military Comes With A Great Deal Of Stress And Crisis

Serving in the military comes with a significant amount of stress and crisis, stemming from factors such as combat duty, multiple deployments, concerns about family wellbeing, and physical health challenges. Notably, there has been an alarming increase in suicide rates and suicidal ideations among veterans since 2006. This rise raises critical questions: What factors contribute to this escalation? Are veterans more susceptible to self-harm than active-duty personnel?

Understanding the risk factors associated with military-related suicide is essential for developing effective prevention strategies. One prominent risk factor for both active-duty service members and veterans is exposure to combat-related trauma, which can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression—both significant contributors to suicidal thoughts and behaviors (Harmon et al., 2016). While active-duty personnel are routinely exposed to such stressors, veterans may experience prolonged exposure to trauma without adequate support systems post-discharge, potentially increasing their risk. Studies indicate that although active service members face immediate dangers, veterans often exhibit higher rates of suicidal ideation and attempts due to accumulated trauma and difficulties integrating back into civilian life (Blosnich et al., 2013).

Helping professionals, military institutions, and Department of Defense agencies can play pivotal roles in reshaping negative perceptions associated with seeking mental health support. Stigmatization remains a formidable barrier, as many service members fear judgment or career repercussions if they disclose vulnerabilities. Initiatives that promote mental health awareness, normalize help-seeking behaviors, and ensure confidentiality can foster a more supportive environment. For example, integrating mental health education into military training programs and leadership initiatives can cultivate a culture where seeking help is viewed as a sign of strength rather than weakness (Dick, 2014). Military commands can endorse peer support programs and provide accessible psychological services, thereby reducing stigma and encouraging timely intervention.

One effective prevention method could involve the development of targeted peer-led outreach programs that educate service members and veterans about the signs of suicidal ideation and available resources. Peer support has been shown to resonate well within military communities, as individuals often trust and relate to their peers' experiences. By training veterans and active-duty personnel as mental health ambassadors, these programs can create safe spaces for dialogue, dispel misconceptions about mental health, and promote early help-seeking behaviors. This approach leverages existing social networks and can be particularly effective in reducing stigma and increasing awareness about suicide risks (Rubin et al., 2013).

References

• Blosnich, J. R., Brown, G. R., Shipherd, J. C., Kauth, M., Piegari, R., & Bossarte, R. M. (2013). Prevalence of gender identity disorder and suicide risk among transgender veterans utilizing veterans health administration care. Journal of Public Health, 103(Suppl 1), 27–32.
• Dick, G. (2014). Social work practice with veterans. NASW Press.
• Harmon, L. M., Cooper, R. L., Nugent, W. R., & Butcher, J. J. (2016). A review of the effectiveness of military suicide prevention programs in reducing rates of military suicides. Journal of Human Behavior in the Social Environment, 26(1), 15–24.
• Rubin, A., Weiss, E. L., & Coll, J. E. (2013). Handbook of military social work. John Wiley & Sons.
• Pryce, J. G., Pryce, D. H., & Shakelford, K. K. (2012). The costs of courage: Combat stress, warriors, and family survival. Lyceum Books.
• Hyman, J., Ireland, R., Frost, L., & Cottrell, L. (2012). Suicide incidence and risk factors in an active duty US military population. American Journal of Public Health, 102(Suppl).