Veteran Suicide Prevention

Lusk, J.L., Brenner, L.A., Betthauser, L.M., Terrio, H., Schwab, K., Scher, A. (2015). A qualitative study of potential suicide risk factors among Operation Iraqi Freedom/Operation Enduring Freedom Soldiers returning to the Continental United States (CONUS). Journal of Clinical Psychology, 71(9), 843–855.

Brenner, L.A., Betthauser, L.M., Bahraini, N., Lusk, J.L., Terrio, H., Schwab, K.(2015). Soldiers returning from deployment: A qualitative study regarding exposure, coping, and reintegration. Rehabilitation Psychology, 60(3), 277-285.

Grant, C., Lusk, J.L. (2015). A multidisciplinary approach to therapeutic risk management of the suicidal patient. Journal of Multidisciplinary Healthcare, 8, 291–298.

Rehder, K., Lusk, J., Chen, J. (2021). Deaths of Despair: Conceptual and Clinical Implications. Cognitive and Behavioral Practice, 28:1, 40-52.

Objective: To conduct a series of studies focused on understanding and preventing suicide among veterans, incorporating a multidisciplinary approach that spans clinical implications, risk factors, therapeutic risk management, and the reintegration challenges of returning soldiers.

Background: Veterans face unique challenges that increase their risk for suicide, including exposure to combat, moral injury, and difficulties with reintegration into civilian life. Despite heightened awareness and efforts to address these issues, there remains a critical need for effective assessment and evidence-based interventions tailored to this population. This body of research aims to deepen the understanding of "deaths of despair" among veterans, identify potential suicide risk factors, and explore effective strategies for therapeutic risk management and support during reintegration.

Methodology: The collective research employs a mix of qualitative and quantitative methods to explore the multifaceted nature of veteran suicide risk. Studies include conceptual analyses, clinical practice evaluations, and in-depth qualitative interviews with returning soldiers. This comprehensive approach allows for the identification of key risk factors, the development of multidisciplinary therapeutic strategies, and insights into the reintegration experiences of veterans.

Significance: This research is pivotal for several reasons:

• Comprehensive Understanding of Veteran Suicide Risk: It offers an integrated view of the factors contributing to veteran suicide, including clinical, psychological, and social dimensions.

• Innovation in Suicide Prevention Strategies: This introduces novel perspectives and approaches to suicide prevention that are specifically designed to meet the needs of the veteran population.

• Guidance for Clinical Practice: The findings provide valuable information for healthcare providers, offering strategies for therapeutic risk management and support for veterans at risk of suicide.

• Foundation for Future Research and Policy: The synthesis of these studies laid the groundwork for further investigation and informed policy development aimed at reducing suicide rates among veterans.

Conclusion: The integrated insights from veteran suicide prevention research represent a significant contribution to the field, offering a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by veterans and paving the way for more effective interventions. By addressing the complex interplay of risk factors and providing a framework for support and reintegration, this body of work not only seeks to reduce the incidence of veteran suicides but also to enhance the overall well-being of those who have served.