Suicide after leaving the UK armed forces--a cohort study

Area of Science:

• Military health
• Public health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Limited research exists on suicide risk among former military personnel.
• Understanding post-service mental health challenges is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate suicide rates, timing, and risk factors in UK Armed Forces leavers (1996-2005).
• To compare suicide risk in ex-service members with general and serving populations.

Main Methods:

• Cohort study linking discharge records with national suicide death data.
• Analysis of 233,803 individuals who left the UK Armed Forces between 1996 and 2005.
• Comparison of suicide rates across different age groups, service branches, and demographic factors.

Main Results:

• Overall suicide rate was not elevated compared to the general population.
• Men aged 24 and younger had a 2-3 times higher suicide risk post-discharge.
• Highest risk observed in younger males, Army personnel, those with short service, and lower ranks.
• Mental health service contact was lowest in the highest-risk age groups.

Conclusions:

• Young men exiting the UK Armed Forces are at heightened suicide risk, potentially linked to pre-service vulnerabilities.
• Risk appears highest in the initial two years post-discharge.
• Preventive strategies should focus on pre-discharge preparation and post-service mental health support seeking.