suicide risk

Firearms are used in approximately three-quarters of veteran suicides in the U.S., up from two-thirds in 2001, according to an analysis of federal data by Everytown for Gun Safety. Veterans account for nearly 20% of firearm suicide deaths despite making up a small share of the population, with about 18 veterans dying by suicide daily, 13 of which involve firearms.

Firearms are used in about three-quarters of veteran suicides in the U.S., up from two-thirds in 2001. Veterans die by suicide at higher rates than the general population, with 18 veterans on average dying by suicide daily, 13 of which involve firearms. The veteran firearm suicide rate increased by 67% between 2001 and 2023, compared to 35% among nonveterans.