Title: Alarming Study Uncovers Underreported Veteran Suicide Crisis
A recent study conducted by America’s Warrior Partnership has revealed a shocking truth about the overlooked epidemic of veteran suicides. Contrary to the Veterans Administration’s estimate of 17 suicides per day, the study reports that an alarming rate of 44 veterans take their own lives daily. This startling disparity has prompted retired Chief Warrant Officer Michael Carmichael, a 26-year veteran himself, to launch an online initiative called Check A Vet.
During a recent discussion on the Better For America podcast hosted by Rebecca Weber, CEO of the Association of Mature American Citizens, Carmichael explained the motivation behind Check A Vet. Following his retirement, Carmichael experienced a loss of identity and purpose, no longer being part of the military’s structure and decision-making process. He founded Check A Vet with the aim of creating a grassroots support system for veterans, involving their neighbors, friends, family members, and coworkers. The initiative also seeks to educate people about the subtle signs, symptoms, and risk factors associated with veteran suicide.
One of the most staggering findings of America’s Warrior Partnership’s Operation Deep Dive™ report is the undercounting of former service member deaths by states at an astonishing combined error rate of 25%. Additionally, the study revealed a 37% higher suicide rate than what the VA had previously reported for the years 2014-2018.
Carmichael raised concerns about the accuracy of the VA’s suicide statistics, citing a buried piece of information in the appendix of their publications. After meticulously collecting and analyzing data from various small communities, counties, and states, the American Warrior Partnership found that the VA’s numbers were underreported by a factor of 2.4 times greater than what was previously acknowledged by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Collaborating with Duke University and the University of Alabama, the study estimated that the actual number of veteran suicides since September 11, 2001, has skyrocketed from 30,177 to a shocking 308,000.
The revelations of the AWP report highlight the urgent need for a comprehensive understanding of the veteran suicide crisis and a more accurate representation of the true scale of this tragedy. By shedding light on these underreported numbers, the study aims to bring attention to the gravity of the situation and advocate for improved support systems and mental health services for veterans.
It is crucial to address the veteran suicide crisis from multiple angles, including increased funding for mental health programs specifically tailored to veterans, greater collaboration between government agencies and community organizations, and increased awareness among the general public. The impact of this crisis reaches beyond the individual veterans; it affects their families, friends, and communities as well.
By raising awareness, fostering understanding, and providing tangible support, initiatives like Check A Vet and studies like Operation Deep Dive™ offer hope for a brighter future for our veterans. It is imperative that we recognize the sacrifices made by these brave men and women and work tirelessly to ensure that they receive the care, support, and appreciation they deserve.
Let us come together as a nation to confront this crisis head-on and honor the service of our veterans by standing alongside them during their most vulnerable moments. Only through united efforts can we combat this alarming epidemic and provide the necessary support to those who have selflessly served our country.
