Suicide Rate on V.A. Care vs. Civilians
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Health Fitness -> subcategory Other.
Suicide Rates: Veterans in V.A. Care vs. Civilians
Overview
A recent study by the Department of Veterans Affairs and the University of Michigan reveals that veterans receiving treatment for depression through the V.A. are no more likely to commit suicide than civilians in similar circumstances.Key Insights
The study, the most extensive of its kind, examined records from over 800,000 veterans, including those returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. The findings showed 1,683 suicides, less than 0.25%, which is significantly lower than some previous estimates. However, experts caution against broad generalizations since many veterans with mental health issues don't seek V.A. treatment.Age and Suicide Risk
Suicide risk patterns differ from non-veteran populations. The rate was highest among veterans aged 18 to 44, decreased by 20% for those aged 45 to 64, and then increased again in older age groups.Impact of PTSD
Interestingly, veterans with both depression and PTSD were 20% less likely to commit suicide compared to those with only depression. This is contrary to the typical expectation that multiple mental health conditions increase suicide risk. Dr. Marcia Valenstein from the University of Michigan suggests that veterans with PTSD might have better access to mental health services.Financial Support
Veterans treated for PTSD often receive government income supplements for their disability, which might contribute to the reduced suicide risk.Broader Implications
The V.A. and the Defense Department have been investigating suicide risk among veterans since a 2003 study highlighted high rates among combat troops. A separate study in Oregon found that veterans are about twice as likely to commit suicide compared to non-veterans.Study Publication and Scope
This analysis appears in the American Journal of Public Health and focuses on veterans who sought treatment for depression in the V.A. system, indicating they might differ in some respects from other patient groups. According to Mark Kaplan from Portland State University, the study significantly enhances our understanding of this demographic.Study Details
Researchers reviewed records from 807,694 veterans in the V.A. system between April 1999 and September 2004. Participants included men and women from various conflicts, such as Vietnam and the Persian Gulf. However, the research didn't analyze each conflict separately or assess the suicide methods used.In a past Oregon study led by Dr. Kaplan, findings showed that over 80% of veteran suicides involved firearms, compared to 55% among non-veterans.
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