Suicide among Veterans
Veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may struggle with suicidal thoughts or behaviors. Identified by the VA as suicidal ideation, planning to take one’s own life can be one of the most frightening symptoms of PTSD for a veteran and their family.
Are you struggling with suicidal thoughts or behaviors?
Is a veteran you love displaying signs of self-harm or a desire to die?
If you or a veteran you love is in crisis, call 911, visit your nearest emergency room,
or call the 24/7 Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255.
Contact Vets National Advocates today for help appealing your disability benefits. If your claim has been denied, we can appeal the decision and fight for the benefits that you deserve.
Why Might a Veteran Consider Suicide?
For any person, suicide is about escaping the pain of living, not a desire to die.
When a veteran feels helpless in their situation, and that there is no hope to escape it in any way, they may begin to believe that ending their life is the only way out.
Veterans who’ve been exposed to trauma like watching a person close to them die or suffering sexual abuse are at a higher risk of developing PTSD and, thus, having suicidal tendencies. Almost any traumatic event can spur a severe depression, which may lead to suicidal behaviors and thoughts.
Statistics on veteran suicide are hazy, as many suicides go unreported and medical examiners need to prove intent to rule the death a suicide. However, the VA reports that from 2009-2011, the rate of suicide jumped 44% for young male veterans and 11% for young female vets.
Warning Signs of Suicidal Behaviors
Veterans displaying the following behaviors may be at risk for suicide:
- Feeling helpless and hopeless
- Feeling worthless, feeling like a failure, or a belief they do not deserve help
- Hatefulness toward themselves
- Believing they are a burden to others
- Feeling that the pain of living is too much to bear
Veterans need a strong support system to overcome these feelings. If someone close to you is suffering, or if you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, speak to someone you trust, or call the Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255 to connect with a caring VA responder today.
Contact Us for Help Today
We believe that the veterans who’ve defended our country need to be protected in times of crisis. Vets National Advocates is ready to fight for you and get you the benefits you deserve.
Suicidal tendencies may be a symptom of psychiatric disability. Don’t suffer without the benefits you’ve earned.
Call 1 (877) 777-4021 today or contact us now for a 100% free, no-obligation consultation.
