Understanding Unique Behavioral Health Risks for Veterans

Veterans who have served in the U.S. military often face significant mental health challenges, with higher-than-average risks of suicide, substance use disorder (SUD) and domestic violence. These risks can persist for decades, underscoring the lifelong impact that serving in the military can have on mental health.

Heightened risks associated with military service

According to recent statistics, approximately 17 veterans die by suicide every day in the United States, and suicide is the second leading cause of death among veterans under the age of 45. These suicide rates remain elevated even decades after discharge, revealing a need for continuous support throughout a veteran’s lifetime. Challenges like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), chronic pain and long-lasting emotional scars from service can resurface or worsen with age.

Substance use disorder (SUD) is another serious behavioral health risk for veterans. Studies show that nearly one in ten veterans have been diagnosed with SUD, a rate significantly higher than among civilians. The use of alcohol, prescription opioids and other substances can often begin as coping mechanisms for service-related pain or trauma, and eventually develop into chronic misuse. These struggles are also frequently tied to other mental health conditions, with many veterans battling both SUD and depression or anxiety. Combat-related injuries and chronic physical pain can compound these problems, indicating a need for integrated treatment that addresses both physical and mental health.

Domestic violence is another risk, with veterans facing elevated rates of both experiencing and perpetrating intimate partner violence. The psychological effects of trauma, chronic stress and PTSD can lead to aggression and difficulty in managing relationships, increasing the risk of domestic violence in veteran households. This not only endangers the veteran, but also has repercussions for spouses and children, who may suffer long-term consequences from exposure to violence.

Where to find help

While Veterans Affairs (VA) provides extensive mental health resources, it is not the only path to finding support. Community-based programs, nonprofit organizations and specialized veteran-focused therapy providers offer additional avenues for care that might be better suited to veterans’ individual needs. These resources can be crucial for those who are not immediately eligible for VA services or who prefer alternative forms of support.

Veterans’ behavioral health needs are complex and require a tailored approach that considers the unique pressures of their service. The lifelong nature of service-related mental health impacts means that awareness, timely intervention and access to resources outside the VA can make a profound difference.

Working Toward Solutions

Overcoming military trauma requires both individual support and a broader cultural shift. There are efforts underway to make mental health care more accessible and to dismantle stigma within military circles. Expanded counseling services, telehealth and veteran-focused mental health programs are reaching veterans in need, helping them understand that it’s not only acceptable to seek help — it’s a brave and necessary step. Additionally, initiatives such as peer support groups, which allow veterans to connect with others who have shared experiences, are gaining momentum and acceptance.

Addressing military trauma in a more comprehensive way also calls for changing perceptions within the military itself. Service members and leaders must normalize mental health care, framing it as integral to their overall fitness and resilience. A veteran who reaches out for mental health care should be seen as someone prioritizing strength and preparedness, rather than as someone admitting to weakness.