Male veterans are committing suicide at an alarming rate, with a ratio of 24 to 1 compared to female veterans. The Veterans Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have reported that about 90% of veteran suicides occur following family incidents. The stress of prolonged separations from family members, failed relationships, and custody battles can exacerbate mental health issues for veterans. The suicide rate among male veterans in 2021 was 95%, compared to 80% among civilians.
Veterans may feel like they are monsters and that their families would be better off without them, leading them to believe that suicide is a solution to their problems. Factors such as combat stress, divorce, and loss of access to children can contribute to feelings of hopelessness and despair. One veteran shared that losing custody of his children was the final straw for him, and the pain of not being able to see his children led him to contemplate suicide. The financial and emotional toll of not being able to see their kids can be overwhelming for veterans.
The mental health struggles of female veterans are also significant, with a higher percentage attempting suicide compared to male veterans. State-by-state data from the Veterans Administration highlights the devastating impact of suicide among male veterans in the United States. In some states, the disparity between male and female veteran suicides is as high as 240 to 1. California and Texas reported a ratio of 21.4 to 1 for veteran suicides, male to female.
Veterans who struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are often encouraged to seek treatment, but they may not anticipate that their mental health background could be used against them in custody battles. Some veterans feel that seeking treatment for PTSD has been used as a reason to restrict their access to their children. The challenges of transitioning back into society, including issues with housing and employment, can compound the struggles that veterans face.
Efforts are being made by organizations like the All Secure Foundation and individuals like Anthony Cancel of Pro Se Dad to provide support and resources for struggling veterans. These organizations aim to prevent tragedies and save veterans’ lives by offering comprehensive support that is tailored to their needs. The impact of custody battles and family incidents on veterans’ mental health cannot be underestimated, and more awareness and resources are needed to address the issue of suicide among veterans. The toll of separation from children and the difficulties of navigating family relationships can push veterans to the brink and result in devastating outcomes if not addressed.
