Educating medical professionals about suicide prevention among military veterans

Abstract

The aim of this paper was to discuss the results of a review of literature related to suicide in military veteran populations. Suicide in veteran populations has been increasing in recent years, and continues to be a medical and social problem across the globe. For medical health professionals, knowledge of the risk factors for suicide, careful assessment, and appropriate interventions are key to suicide prevention. The main aim of this review is to better understand the risk factors present in veteran suicide and find ways by which to educate medical professionals in suicide prevention. Key suicide risk factors found in veteran populations include posttraumatic stress disorder, major depressive disorder, physical injuries, substance use disorders, traumatic brain injury, combat-related guilt, access to firearms, and insufficient social support. Some psychosocial difficulties are unique to veteran populations, and medical professionals should be culturally sensitive to these factors. Psychosocial changes upon discharge from active duty, as well as stigma against mental health disorders and treatment, should also be considered and assessed. Given that general practitioners may be the first line of defense for these veterans, they should be educated in risk factors for veteran suicide and proper assessment techniques. Any suicide risk in a veteran population should be taken very seriously, and responded to appropriately.

The Unique Health Needs of Post-9/11 U.S. Veterans

“…Clinicians should also be mindful that although suicidal ideation may not be reported, suicide risk factors may be present (Ganz & Sher, 2013). If a veteran is determined to be at risk for suicide, immediate assistance can be accessed through the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK [8255]); veterans and their families should press 1.…”

“…Veterans who have just returned from deployment are adapting to civilian life and their predeployment roles in their households. The transition to civilian life post deployment can include a number of stressors (e.g., social exclusion, homelessness, alcohol misuse, unemployment, and mental health disorders; Ganz & Sher, 2013; Lange, 2009). Psychosocial needs can affect sleep, relationships, and parenting (Messinger, 2009).…”

Veterans, guilt, and suicide risk: An opportunity to collaborate with chaplains?

“…22 Guilt has been linked to risk of suicide in veterans. [23][24][25] In one study, close to 75% of veterans who had thought about suicide said they frequently experienced guilt about having violated the precepts of their faith group, family, God, life, or the military. 26 Such fi ndings suggest that the sense of guilt experienced by some at-risk veterans may be grounded in a variety of contexts.…”

The veteran spiritual struggle.

“…Mitigating a given risk factor could then require remaining attentive to both of these contexts. For example, experiences of guilt have been associated with an increased risk of suicidal behavior in veteran populations (Bryan, Morrow, Etienne, & Ray-Sannerud, 2013; Ganz & Sher, 2013; Hendin & Haas, 1991). Such guilt may be grounded in religious contexts (Exline, Yali, & Sanderson, 2000).…”