Citation

Black SA, Gallaway MS, Bell MR, Ritchie EC. Mil. Psychol. 2011; 23(4): 433-451.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2011, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/08995605.2011.590409

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Prevalence and risk factors associated with soldiers' suicides 2001-2009 (N = 874) were examined. Army suicide rates increased from 9 per 100,000 in 2001 to 22 per 100,000 in 2009. Soldier suicides were lower than civilians from 2001 to 2007, but higher than civilians after 2007. Army suicides were disproportionately higher for men, deployment experience, and a history of a mental health diagnosis/treatment; and lower for African Americans. Many involved planning (38%), communication (21%), alcohol (19%), or drugs (8%). Many had legal problems (31%), high stress loads (90%), a history of self-injury (10%), and other contributing factors prior to entry into the Army (31%). Implications for understanding suicide among military personnel are discussed.

Language: en