Military suicides on the increase

It may have come to your attention through word-of-mouth, news media or otherwise, that the militaries' suicide rate is on the rise. This is not a new problem; the military has been combating this problem ever since the mid-'60s, when the incidents began to be recorded. However, now it looks like a new approach may be needed as in 2008 alone there were 128 cases of confirmed suicide. This has risen from 115 in 2007. So far, 2009 looks no better; in January, 24 soldiers committed suicide. That amounts to 20.2 suicides per 100,000 soldiers. While some of you may see this as a small number, the truth is these numbers have not been seen since 1980. The military already has seminars and monitoring systems set up for support while a soldier is away. However, most of the suicides take place once a soldier has returned home; my idea is to provide a support net here at home where I hope it will do the most good. For instance, a mandatory post-service course would be beneficial; it wouldn't have to be extensive, but it should stress the idea that there may be consequences, in terms of feelings about committing suicide, and that they need to be addressed immediately. This could also help decrease the number of soldiers suffering with depression. While perhaps not driving a man to suicide, depression can be a big problem in terms of employment and home life. The story of a soldier who is killed in action is just as tragic as the soldier who came home and killed himself; both left behind families and both losses are felt.

Graham Danemayer

Naperville