Suicide Prevention in a Deployed Military Unit

Abstract

Objective: Military suicide and parasuicidal behaviors have been increasing over the last several years, with rates highest in the deployed environment. This article presents a deployment cycle-specific suicide prevention plan utilized during one U.S. Army division’s 15-month deployment to Iraq.Methods: Education, identification, and intervention programs were implemented at each phase of the deployment cycle based on the specific unit activities and predicted stressors.Results: During the deployment, there was an annual suicide rate of 16/100,000 within the trial cohort, compared to a theater rate of 24/100,000. Peaks in suicidal ideation and behaviors occurred during months two, six, and twelve of deployment.Conclusions: A deployment cycle prevention program may decrease rates of suicide in the combat environment. This program may serve as a model for other suicide prevention programs.