USA Today reported on Defense Health Agency data showing that suicide was the top cause of death among active duty Army personnel from 2014 to 2019. Accidents were the number-two cause with 814 deaths, and there were 96 combat fatalities, according to the article.

The rate of suicide has risen since that time, the story noted.

DOD’s New Actions

Last year, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced a series of actions aimed at reducing suicide, based on recommendations from an independent commission.

As USA Today noted, the Pentagon plans to hire 2,000 people over the next four years to focus on issues that are sometimes connected with suicide, such as overdrinking, gun safety and access to mental health services.

Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Darcy McAtee