Suicide Prevention and the Veteran Community

Suicide is one of the most pressing mental health challenges facing the veteran community in Australia. Former members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) face a higher risk of suicide compared with the general population, particularly younger veterans and women. Transitioning from military to civilian life, coping with trauma, or living with chronic pain can all contribute to this risk.

Learning how to prevent suicide requires understanding the factors that drive it, recognising warning signs of suicidal thoughts, and providing access to the right support at the right time, including accessing clinics with mental health treatments for veterans and using mental health crisis helplines.

What the Research Shows

Data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) reveals that:

• Male ex-serving members are 27% more likely to die by suicide than other Australian men.
• Female ex-serving members are almost twice as likely to die by suicide compared with Australian women of the same age.
• Veterans aged 18 to 29 are the highest risk group.

These findings highlight the urgent need for targeted prevention strategies that reflect the unique experiences of veterans.

Factors That Increase Suicide Risk

Suicide does not result from a single cause. Instead, it arises from the interaction of psychological, physical, and social stressors.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Around 17% of veterans live with PTSD. Symptoms such as nightmares, flashbacks, and hypervigilance can create constant emotional strain. Without treatment, PTSD can lead to isolation and hopelessness.

Depression and Anxiety

Depression and anxiety often go underdiagnosed in the veteran community. Persistent sadness, lack of motivation, and withdrawal from social connections can quickly erode wellbeing and increase risk.

Chronic Pain and Poor Physical Health

Many veterans deal with service-related injuries. Chronic pain is closely linked to suicide risk, particularly when it limits independence or quality of life.

Civilian Transition

Adjusting to life after the ADF is a significant challenge. Veterans may struggle with employment, financial security, and the loss of identity that comes with leaving a structured environment.

Substance Use

Alcohol and drugs are sometimes used to cope with stress or trauma. Substance misuse can worsen mental health, increase impulsivity, and heighten the risk of suicide.

Recognising the Warning Signs

Families and peers play a crucial role in identifying when a veteran may be at risk or is having suicidal thoughts. Common warning signs include:

• Talking about being a burden or feeling hopeless
• Withdrawing from family and friends
• Sudden mood changes, particularly calmness after distress
• Giving away personal belongings
• Increased alcohol or drug use
• Talking or writing about suicide

Recognising these behaviours early and encouraging professional help can save lives.

Suicide Prevention Strategies

Learning how to prevent suicide in the veteran community means recognising risks early and putting protective strategies in place. The following approaches have been shown to reduce risk and save lives.

Timely Access to Mental Health Care

Services that understand military culture are vital. Monarch Mental Health Group (MMHG) provides psychiatric care, psychological therapy, and advanced treatments such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). Access to tailored treatment can make a significant difference.

Peer and Community Support

Veterans often respond well to peer programs where they can talk with others who share their background. Feeling understood reduces isolation and encourages help-seeking.

Support During Transition

Employment assistance, housing support, and financial counselling reduce the stress of civilian life. Practical support helps veterans maintain stability and purpose.

Family Education

Families who understand PTSD, depression, and warning signs of suicidal thoughts are better equipped to support their loved ones. Including family members in therapy can also improve outcomes.

Reducing Access to Lethal Means

Safe storage of firearms and medications reduces the risk of impulsive actions. Veterans and families should work with healthcare professionals to develop safe plans.

Crisis Intervention & Mental Health Crisis Helplines

Immediate support is available through mental health crisis helplines such as Lifeline (13 11 14) and Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636). These services provide 24/7 counselling and can connect individuals with ongoing care.

Effective Treatments for Veterans with Depression

Effective treatments for veterans are available, and a combination of therapies can provide real and lasting relief.

Psychological Therapy

Psychological therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) are widely used for PTSD, depression, and anxiety.

Psychiatry and Medication

Medications can relieve symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders. Careful monitoring by psychiatrists ensures the best outcomes.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

TMS is a non-invasive treatment that stimulates areas of the brain linked to mood regulation. It has shown strong results for veterans with treatment-resistant depression and PTSD.

Medication Assisted Psychotherapy

This approach combines specific medication with guided psychotherapy sessions. It is an emerging treatment that is showing promise in helping veterans process trauma.

Practical Steps for Veterans and Families

• Seek help early: Contact a GP or a specialist mental health clinic before symptoms escalate.
• Stay connected: Maintain regular contact with friends, family, or veteran groups.
• Create a safety plan: List warning signs, coping strategies, and crisis numbers.
• Look after physical health: Good sleep, nutrition, and regular activity build resilience.
• Limit alcohol and drug use: Reducing substance use lowers impulsivity and emotional distress.
• Engage in purposeful activity: Volunteering, work, or hobbies provide structure and meaning.

The Role of Communities in Preventing Suicide

Suicide prevention requires the involvement of the whole community:

• Healthcare providers need training in veteran-specific mental health.
• Employers should create veteran-friendly workplaces that value military skills.
• Community organisations can provide inclusive activities for veterans and families.
• Government agencies must ensure sustainable funding for treatment and crisis services.

Monarch Mental Health Group’s Commitment to Veterans

Monarch Mental Health Group supports veterans through psychiatric services, psychology, TMS, and medication review. Our clinicians understand the unique pressures of military service and work collaboratively to provide personalised care.

It is important to note that Monarch clinics do not have emergency facilities. If you or someone you know is in crisis outside of our opening hours, please call Lifeline at 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue at 1300 22 4636. In an emergency, always call 000.

Working Together to Treat Depression and Save Lives

Suicide in the veteran community is a complex and urgent issue, but it is preventable. With better awareness, access to specialised treatment, peer and family support, and strong community engagement, lives can be saved. Veterans deserve care that honours their service and supports their future.

If you or someone you care about is struggling, reach out today. Help is available, and recovery is possible.

FAQs

What are the warning signs that a veteran may be considering suicide?

Warning signs that a veteran is experiencing suicidal thoughts can include withdrawal from loved ones, talking about hopelessness, sudden mood changes, increased substance use, or giving away belongings. Families and friends should take these behaviours seriously and encourage professional help. Monarch Mental Health Group clinics in NSW, Queensland, and Victoria offer assessments and treatment services to support veterans and their families. If you are worried about someone, reach out to our team for guidance and support.

What treatments are available for veterans struggling with suicidal thoughts?

Evidence-based treatments include psychological therapies such as CBT, EMDR, and ACT, psychiatric care with medication, and advanced options like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). These treatments can be life-changing for veterans who have not responded to standard care. Monarch Mental Health Group provides all of these services through our clinic locations in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and regional areas. Call us today to discuss a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

What is TMS therapy, and how can it help veterans?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive treatment that stimulates brain regions involved in mood regulation. It is effective for treatment-resistant depression and PTSD, which are common among veterans. Sessions are quick, painless, and have minimal side effects. Monarch Mental Health Group offers TMS therapy at our accredited clinics across Australia. Speak to our team today to find out if TMS is suitable for you.

How can veterans access Monarch’s mental health services?

Veterans can access our services with a referral from their GP, often supported by a Mental Health Care Plan. Some veterans may also be eligible for Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) funding or WorkCover support. Our clinics in Sydney, Melbourne, and Queensland provide assessments, psychology, psychiatry, and advanced therapies. Contact us today to learn how you can begin treatment.