Suicide Rates for U.S. Soldiers at Record High

As of the end of 2008, a US soldier was more likely to commit suicide than an American civilian. This trend is now under investigation by the U.S. Army, which must grapple with the extent of inadequate psychological support available to soldiers coming home.

“All Things Considered” on NPR:

The Army has commissioned a $50 million study to help explain the rash of suicides. With so much unknown, officers have been pleading with soldiers to watch each other.

“Make sure they are in touch with that ground of reality, and that they’re not thinking of doing something stupid, like killing themselves,” says Chaplain Kevin Wilkinson to a briefing room full of 101st Airborne Division soldiers.

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