Politics & Government

REPORT: More U.S. Troops Currently Dying From Suicide Than War

The New York Times reports that even as the military withdraws from overseas conflicts, the suicide rate has spiked with 154 suicides among active-duty troops through last Thursday. By contrast, 124 U.S. soldiers died in combat during the same period.

 

The New York Times and the Associated Press are reporting that in addition to a rapid rise in the suicide rate among active-duty military personnel, it again became the leading cause of death among active duty troops.

The report was greeted with alarm by military leaders. 

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“This is a troubling issue and we are committed to getting our service members the help they need,” Cynthia Smith, a Defense Department spokeswoman, said to the New York Times. “I want to emphasize that getting help is not a sign of weakness; it is a sign of strength.”

Recently, the Pentagon established a Defense Suicide Prevention Office, the New York Times reported.

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This isn't the first time the suicide rate has outpaced conflict-related deaths during wartime.  In 2011, the Atlantic Magazine reported that for the year, the military endured 468 suicides -- including reservists -- compared to 462 military deaths in combat.

The Pentagon reported suicide rate increases in 2009 and 2010.

More than 25,000 soldiers and civilian workers live within and around . 


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