Understanding Suicide Risk Among Post-9/11 Women in the Military

Body of Abstract: Abstract Title: Understanding Suicide Risk Among Post-9/11 Women in the Military
Tracks and Subcategories –
Track: Mental Health
Subcategories: Community-based Interventions, Reducing Stigma
Research

Aims:
This interactive panel aims to explore the social factors that contribute to suicidal thoughts and behaviors among post-9/11 military service members, drawing upon data from the Wounded Warrior Project and personal testimonies from female veterans. The discussion will focus on the intersection of loneliness, military sexual trauma (MST), economic stressors, access to care, stigma, and mental health needs, all of which are critical to understanding the nearly 30% of surveyed women warriors who report experiencing suicidal thoughts. The goal is to not only present data but to also amplify the voices of those who have lived through these experiences, allowing for a more nuanced exploration of the challenges and vulnerabilities faced by women veterans.

Methods:
This session will feature a dynamic blend of data-driven insights and firsthand accounts, providing a holistic understanding of the issue. Data from the Wounded Warrior Project, specifically focused on female veterans, will serve as a foundation for the panel discussion. The panelists, including mental health experts, veterans’ advocates, and female veterans with lived experiences, will examine the factors influencing suicidal thoughts and behaviors in this population. Each panelist will share personal narratives or case studies based on their experience in supporting women veterans, including those impacted by MST, social isolation, economic instability, and inadequate access to mental health care. Audience engagement will be encouraged through Q&A and facilitated discussions to deepen understanding of effective preventive and postvention strategies.

Results:
Data suggests that female veterans face unique stressors compared to their male counterparts, including higher rates of military sexual trauma and social isolation, which contribute to mental health challenges and suicidal ideation. The Wounded Warrior Project data highlights the profound impact of stigma on seeking mental health support and the lack of accessible, gender-sensitive care options. Personal testimonies from panelists will highlight the emotional and psychological toll of these stressors, as well as the resilience and coping mechanisms employed by women veterans. Additionally, the panel will identify trends and gaps in current mental health interventions that affect this demographic.

Conclusions:
This panel will emphasize the need for more targeted and accessible mental health care solutions for female veterans, with a focus on upstream prevention. The discussion will offer actionable insights into improving both preventive measures and postvention strategies that support women in navigating the unique challenges they face in military and post-service life. By integrating both data and lived experiences, the session will provide participants with a deeper understanding of the social factors influencing suicidal thoughts among female service members, equipping them with tools to support these women in their communities better.
________________________________________