DoD releases 2023 military suicide report, Lubbock VFW highlights prevention efforts

LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – The Department of Defense Military Suicide Report shows that 523 service members committed suicide in 2023.

That is thirty more than was reported two years ago, and the total number of suicide deaths per 100,000 soldiers was 9% higher than in 2022.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin established the Suicide Prevention Response and Independent Review Committee to review suicide prevention and response programs.

Lubbock VFW Commander Sarah Weede says this work has changed significantly since she actively served, but more can be done.

“In terms of mental health care, it was very limited,” Weede said. “Just because of the sheer number of people who needed it compared to the health care providers they had available. It is critical that they get more mental health workers into the Department of Defense.”

Weede explains that it’s important to pay attention to the signs that a service member is struggling, but also to take the time to listen to their story.

“To look for the signals, you have to be involved with the people around you,” Weede said. “So when you walk past someone and you say ‘how are you’ and they say ‘fine’, no, how are you actually doing? You have to want to know how they are doing and actually make the effort to see what problems they may have.”

Members also face stigma around getting help.

“My message to all veterans and civilians and everyone is that it’s okay not to be okay,” Weede said. “You go to the doctor when you have a cold, you go to the doctor when you have a broken arm. They can help you solve the problem. It’s okay to talk to someone about the problems you have.”

There are plenty of tools like the Lubbock VFW Post, VetStarand the Veterans Crisis Line that can provide mental support.

If you need immediate assistance, call 988.

Just knowing that there are people ready to help service members and veterans can make a big difference

“The saying goes, you’d rather hear their problems at three in the morning than hear their eulogy the next week,” Weede said. “That resonates with me. It’s just taking care of your brothers and sisters.”

You can find a link to the full 2023 Military Suicide Report here.