Suicide Among U.S. Troops and the Military?s Response.

Suicide Among U.S. Troops and the Military?s Response.

June 14, 2012

The U. S. Armed forces are averaging nearly one suicide per day this year, according to a new article by the Associated Press. That means, since January, fifty percent more soldiers have died by suicide than from combat in Afghanistan. Though reasons for the upswing are varied and unknown, military administration agree that the problem is troubling and warrants preventative action. ?

Military services have taken measures in the past such as setting up hotlines, increasing mental health professionals on the battlefield, and adding stress management to military training; however, these measures may not be enough. Marine Sgt. Maj. Bryan Battaglia recently issued a video in which he calls for all military staff to pay more attention for at risk individuals. He states, ?From private to general, we shoulder an obligation to look and listen for signs and we stand ready to intervene and assist our fellow service member or battle buddy in time of need.?

The new surge in suicides has also been the subject of an internal memo by Defense Secretary Leon Panetta, reported on by the American Forces Press Service. Panetta comments on the stigma associated with mental health issues and the magnitude of these thoughts in the military, laying the responsibility of changing this climate on the military leadership. ?Leaders throughout the chain of command must actively promote a constructive command climate that fosters cohesion and encourages individuals to reach out for help when needed,? Panetta states. He also notes that a Defense Suicide Prevention Office has been created at the Pentagon, which will work with military offices to implement recommendations and programs for suicide prevention not only for active forces but with the Veteran Affairs Department as well. ?

Navy Captain John Kirby said of Panetta, ?The secretary wants to make it very clear to everybody in uniform and their families that there?s nothing stronger you can do for yourself and your family than to come forward and seek some help and seek the counseling that you need, and you?ll get it from the department.?

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