Is It Time to Reframe our Approach to Veteran Suicide Prevention?

Introduction

Veteran suicide is not a new epidemic. That said, is it time to reframe our approach to veteran suicide prevention? In this week’s Bugler, Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services (the Center) highlights the power of social connection, the importance of peer networks, and the value of community-based capacity in combating loneliness and isolation.

We recognize that isolation and disconnection experienced by those who served often shows up quietly and without warning – with one’s sense of belonging and identity having been so strongly influenced by his or her military service that the absence of military life now leaves a significant void.

Building on the conversation started in our last piece (The Power of Data and Community: Responding to the VA’s 2025 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report), today’s blog further examines the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report and explores the issue of isolation and disconnection among veterans.
Providing timely insights into the ongoing struggle to reduce suicide rates among veterans, the newly released report presents sobering data and leads us to essential questions, including:

• Are we framing prevention correctly?
• And, instead of focusing only on why are veterans dying by suicide, could shifting our attention to how can we prevent loneliness and isolation among veterans lead us to better solutions?
• Finally, could we help those who served heal by first recognizing that a veteran having been “shaken to the core by war” (as we wrote in a 2013 op-ed for The Philadelphia Inquirer titled Unseen Wounds) is experiencing a “deeply human reaction”?

Key Findings from the 2025 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report

Relying on national mortality statistics and highlighting important trends, risk factors, and areas needing intervention, the report delivers a thorough review of veteran suicide. Although the numbers are concerning, they shed light on patterns that can help inform effective suicide prevention strategies.

• Number of Suicides: In 2023, thousands of veterans died by suicide — a rate notably higher than the general population. Though there was a minor decrease compared to previous years, the numbers remain strikingly high.
• Demographic Breakdown: Suicide rates differ substantially across age, gender, race, and service era. Middle-aged and older male veterans represent the largest share of suicides, though younger veterans and female veterans also face risks, with some groups experiencing rising rates.
• Trends Over Time: Despite extensive suicide prevention efforts, suicide rates among veterans have stayed consistently high over the past decade. Certain subgroups have seen slight improvements, while others — especially those facing socioeconomic challenges — have not.
• Risk Factors: The report highlights chronic pain, homelessness, substance use disorder, financial instability, and lack of engagement with VA healthcare as major risk factors. Veterans not using VA services are at greater risk, further emphasizing the need for outreach and engagement.

Collectively, these findings reveal a complex reality shaped by varied life experiences, health concerns, and societal obstacles. 

Traditional Framing: The Limitations of “Why Are Veterans Killing Themselves?”

For many years, the main question guiding veteran suicide prevention efforts has been, “Why are veterans killing themselves?” This perspective has produced valuable research into trauma, mental illness, and the long-term impacts of military service. It has also spurred efforts to improve access to mental healthcare, screen for depression and PTSD, and address clinical symptoms leading up to suicide.

However, this approach has drawbacks. Focusing on individual pathology and crisis points can overlook broader social and environmental contributors to suicide risk. It might reinforce stigma, making veterans feel blamed or judged for their struggles. Importantly, it can neglect systemic issues — such as loneliness, social isolation, and lack of community — that increasingly are seen as significant drivers of suicide.

Reframing the Question: “How Do We Prevent Loneliness and Isolation Among Veterans?”

American Legion Magazine (February 2026) featured Alan Greenblatt’s article, The Invisible Epidemic, which argues that despite living in a hyperconnected world, many people feel more isolated than ever. Growing evidence indicates that rethinking our central question could yield transformative results. Instead of asking “why?”, we might ask, “How can we stop loneliness and isolation among veterans?” This shift moves the focus from individual shortcomings to collective action and from crisis response to proactive relationship-building.

Loneliness and social isolation are now recognized as strong suicide risk factors — not just for veterans, but for everyone. For those who served, leaving behind military camaraderie, structure, and shared purpose can be deeply unsettling. Veterans may become disconnected from family, friends, and community, especially when struggling with physical or mental health problems.

By centering our prevention efforts on loneliness and isolation, we expand the range of possible solutions. We invite communities, organizations, and individuals to take part in fostering connection and belonging.

The Role of Loneliness and Isolation: Evidence and Impact

Research consistently shows a link between loneliness and increased suicide risk, while social support offers protection. Veterans transitioning to civilian life often grapple with losing their identity, difficulty finding meaningful work, and barriers to care — all intensified if a veteran lacks strong social networks.

Studies indicate that isolated veterans are more likely to suffer from depression, substance use disorder, and suicidal thoughts. The loss of military bonds — the so-called “battle buddy” effect — can leave veterans feeling aimless. Older veterans may face additional vulnerability due to retirement, declining health, and loss of peers.

Crucially, loneliness isn’t just an emotion — it’s a measurable risk factor. Tackling it can bring real, positive changes to mental health outcomes.

Potential Impact of Addressing Loneliness: Community, Connection, and Support Networks

If we prioritize efforts to prevent loneliness, what might change? Suicide prevention would become a community-wide responsibility, not just for mental health professionals. Faith groups, Veterans Service Organizations, employers, and local governments could all contribute to creating inclusive spaces for veterans.

Programs supporting peer mentoring and group activities show promise. Examples include veteran coffee clubs, volunteer opportunities, and recreational groups, which help rebuild camaraderie lost after service. Technology can also play a role — virtual support groups and online communities offer connection for those far away.

Furthermore, targeted outreach to at-risk veterans who are homeless, unemployed/underemployed, overmedicated or self-medicating, or living alone — helps ensure no one is forgotten. The aim isn’t just to treat mental illness but to provide belonging, purpose, and hope.

Current Initiatives and Gaps: What Is Being Done, and Where More Focus Is Needed

The VA and several nonprofits have launched initiatives to reduce suicide. These efforts include crisis hotlines, mental health clinics, outreach, and research into risk factors. The VA’s “Be There” campaign, for instance, urges communities to support veterans through everyday actions.

Despite these advances, big gaps persist. Many veterans aren’t aware of available resources or face hurdles accessing care — like stigma, distance, or transportation issues. Programs targeting loneliness and isolation are newer and less funded than clinical interventions.

Some high-risk groups — such as women veterans, LGBTQ+ veterans, and those with multiple deployments — remain underserved. Closing these gaps requires focused outreach and culturally sensitive programs.

The Center Recommendations and Activities: Practical Ideas for Preventing Veteran Loneliness and Isolation

To achieve meaningful progress, the Center is broadening its focus on veteran and military family well-being to include strategies that foster social connection. Here are practical recommendations taken with policymakers, communities, and individuals:

1. Investing in Peer Support Programs: Expanding and funding initiatives that connect veterans, both in person and online. Peer mentors help new veterans adjust to civilian life and offer support.
2. Encouraging Community Involvement: Local groups, businesses, and faith organizations actively invite veterans to join social, recreational, and volunteer activities. Reducing isolation starts with welcoming participation.
3. Increasing Outreach to Vulnerable Groups: Targeted efforts with organizations focus on reaching homeless veterans, those with disabilities, and at-risk individuals who may feel most isolated. Mobile outreach teams, community health workers, and partnerships with shelters help bridge the gap.
4. Integrating Loneliness Screening into Healthcare: Primary care providers and clinics are encouraged to routinely assess social isolation and loneliness, referring veterans to needed support services.
5. Promoting Public Awareness: Collaborations with organizations such as Angel Force USA, engaging local media, and leveraging digital tools, including the Center’s podcast (Service Before Self) — highlight the significance of social connections for improving mental health, combating stigma, and urging families and friends to check on veterans.
6. Supporting Research and Innovation: Working with think tanks and reassessing how the Center shares resources help fund studies exploring effective ways to build connections and reduce isolation, including technological and community-based approaches.
7. Encouraging Feherty’s Troops First Foundation’s initiative Warrior Call: This nationwide effort aims to strengthen connectivity among servicemembers and veterans, encouraging them to reach out and prevent suicide by connecting with one another.

Individuals can also help. Simple gestures — reaching out to a veteran, offering a ride, and simply listening — can powerfully prevent loneliness. Everyone has a role in building a more connected society.

Conclusion: Reflecting on the Importance of Reframing the Conversation

The 2025 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report reminds us that the issue of veteran suicide is complex and persistent. While understanding why veterans die by suicide matters, it’s equally vital to consider how we can create environments where veterans feel valued, supported, and connected.

Reframing our central question to emphasize preventing loneliness and isolation provides a compassionate and inclusive path forward, rooted in community. Broadening our view and adopting proactive solutions enables us to honor veterans’ service with meaningful action. The journey to reducing suicide rates is lengthy, but together, we can create a future where every veteran finds the connection, support, and hope they deserve.