Posted on Jun 15, 2015
Database May Help Identify Veterans on the Edge. Help or more Big Brother?
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The suicide rate for veterans has been much higher than that of the civilian population for years, and it has risen sharply among young veterans since 2009. The V.A. estimates the suicide rate for male veterans younger than 29 is 80 per 100,000 — about four times the comparable civilian rate. Data shows the rate for female veterans, though much lower than the male rate, is six times the comparable civilian figure. Increased mental health staff and traditional suicide prevention efforts have so far failed to bring the rates down.
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/06/12/us/database-may-help-identify-veterans-likely-to-commit-suicide.html?_r=1
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/06/12/us/database-may-help-identify-veterans-likely-to-commit-suicide.html?_r=1
Posted in these groups: 
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
Suicide
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Suicide
Posted >1 y ago
Responses: 5
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SPC Jan Allbright, M.Sc., R.S., this would be a wonderful program if it actually can predict who is susceptible to commit suicide.
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SPC Jan Allbright, M.Sc., R.S.
Give the VAs heavy handed method of declaring Vets incompetent isn't this a bit on the "Future Crime" side of things?
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LTC Stephen F.
SPC Jan Allbright, M.Sc., R.S., I was hoping it would not be an invasive or heavy handed approach which is probably more likely. Every time I call the VA for appointments, test results, etc. I have an option to talk to a Crisis counselor. I don't think of suicidal vets as incompetent. They are probably incredibly depressed which can be chemical imbalance, PTSD-related, or a host of other factors. I have been clinically depressed in the past and treated with antidepressants. I have known other service members who had similar struggles - most have overcome. If you have friends and family who really love you and can spot the warning signs the need for this program is nonexistent.
My primary concern is for the homeless vets and others who don't have true friends who will tell them they need to get help.
My primary concern is for the homeless vets and others who don't have true friends who will tell them they need to get help.
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Any system has its flaws like inputting data, finding homeless veterans, or finding veterans who don't want to be found. However, if it helps reduces suicides, I am all for it.
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In some ways, this kind of reminds me of the movie Minority Report, but used to help...hopefully.
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