Mental Health Treatment Utilization and Incidence of Suicidal Thoughts and Actions in Veterans of the US Military
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By
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Ian C. Fischer
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Brandon Nichter
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Peter J. Na
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Melanie L. Hill
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John H. Krystal
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Robert H. Pietrzak
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July 20, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: Mental Health Treatment Utilization and Incidence of Suicidal Thoughts and Actions in Veterans of the US Military
At a Glance
| Category | Detail |
|---|
| Condition | Suicidal thoughts and behaviors in US military veterans |
| Key Mechanisms | Major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, adverse childhood experiences, alcohol use disorder |
| Target Population | US military veterans |
| Care Setting | Veterans Affairs health care services |
Key Highlights
- 9.0% of US veterans reported past 2-week suicidal ideation
- 7.3% reported lifetime suicide planning
- 3.9% reported a lifetime suicide attempt
- Only 35.5% of veterans with suicidal ideation engaged in mental health treatment
- Female veterans have a 103.1% higher suicide rate compared to female nonveterans
Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
- Assess for suicidal thoughts and behaviors in veterans, particularly those with MDD and PTSD
Management
- Encourage engagement in mental health treatment, especially among those with suicidal ideation
Monitoring & Follow-up
- Regularly monitor veterans for changes in suicidal thoughts and behaviors
Risks
- Identify sociodemographic and psychiatric factors that increase suicide risk
Patient & Prescribing Data
US military veterans with suicidal thoughts and behaviors
Veterans using VA health care are more likely to receive mental health treatment
Clinical Best Practices
- Utilize population-based data to inform treatment strategies
- Implement targeted interventions for high-risk groups, including younger veterans and those with MDD or PTSD
- Promote awareness of mental health resources within the veteran community
Related Resources & Content
