Pentagon Report Highlights Rising Suicide Rates in U.S. Military

Despite significant investment in prevention programs, military suicides have continued to increase, particularly among young enlisted males.

The 2023 Pentagon report reveals a continued rise in suicide rates among active-duty service members, with 523 suicides recorded last year.
Suicide rates have been climbing since 2011, with the Marine Corps experiencing the largest increase, followed by the Army, Air Force, and Navy.
The most common factors associated with suicides are relationship problems and behavioral health diagnoses, with firearms being the leading method.
The Department of Defense has requested $547 million for 2025 to enhance suicide prevention efforts and has implemented 20 of 83 recommended actions.
While the Army has reported a decrease in suicides for 2024, overall military suicide rates remain higher than in reserves and the National Guard.