The Current Status of Suicide Prevention Programs in the Military

Suicide is a difficult topic to discuss. Every suicide is a tragedy, but suicide by members of our military is even more difficult because they have given so much to this Nation. Suicide is a multifaceted phenomenon that is not unique to the military. Unfortunately, in addition to the unique hardships of military service, our military members are subject to the same pressures that plague the rest of society. They are exposed to the same stressors, such as the current unemployment and economic situation, that may lead to suicide by their civilian counterparts. I am very concerned those stressors will only get worse in the coming months, as debate regarding cuts to the Department of Defense budget intensifies.