Addressing the Crisis

Idaho’s Veteran, First Responder, and Youth Suicide Rates and the Path Forward

The escalating rates of suicide among our veterans, first responders, and youth present a critical challenge that demands our immediate and unwavering attention. At The Veterans Club, we confront this crisis head-on with a unique, community-focused approach. Drawing on our shared experiences as active and retired veterans and first responders, we bring an invaluable understanding to this mission. Our aim is to raise awareness and empower the community to recognize the warning signs, fostering an environment where help is sought and found. The sobering statistics from Idaho underscore the urgency of our cause.

A Troubling Trend in Idaho’s Veteran Community

Recent data from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) paints a concerning picture for Idaho’s veterans. In 2021, Idaho reported 54 veteran suicides, with a rate of 43.2 per 100,000 veterans. This was significantly higher than both the national veteran suicide rate of 33.9 and Idaho’s general population rate of 22.2 per 100,000.

The situation worsened in 2022, as the number of veteran suicides in Idaho rose to 63, a rate of 51.6 per 100,000 veterans. This figure far exceeded the national veteran suicide rate of 34.7 per 100,000 and the state’s general population rate of 22.2 per 100,000. While consistent data prior to 2021 is not readily available, these figures clearly indicate an alarming upward trend.

Idaho’s veteran suicide rates consistently surpass national averages, highlighting a critical need for targeted mental health and suicide prevention initiatives within the state. Nationally, the suicide rate among male veterans in 2022 was 44% higher than for nonveteran men, and for female veterans, it was a staggering 92% higher than for nonveteran women. These statistics are not just numbers; they represent lives lost and families shattered.

First Responders Also At Risk

The crisis extends beyond our veteran community to include our courageous first responders. Studies analyzing suicides among first responders from 2015 to 2017 revealed that law enforcement officers accounted for 58% of these suicides, firefighters 21%, and EMS providers 18%. While specific data for first responder suicides in Idaho is scarce, the state’s overall elevated suicide rate, at 27.2 per 100,000 residents in 2022, suggests a significant concern within this population.

The Silent Struggle: Youth Suicide in Idaho

Perhaps one of the most heartbreaking aspects of this crisis is its impact on our youth. In Idaho, suicide was the second leading cause of death among individuals aged 10-24 in 2021. Between 2017 and 2021, 132 Idaho school children (ages 10-18) died by suicide, with 34 of those deaths involving children aged 14 or younger.

Idaho’s youth suicide rates have been distressing, with rates for children aged 10-17 increasing from 8 to 10.7 per 100,000 between 2016 and 2021. Recent surveys indicate that a significant percentage of Idaho high school students have seriously considered, planned, or attempted suicide. Factors such as social isolation, high stress levels, the lingering impacts of the pandemic, and the pervasive influence of social media are contributing to this profound mental health crisis among young people. The shortage of mental health care providers across all 44 Idaho counties exacerbates the problem, leaving many without the support they desperately need.

Our Call to Action

These numbers are a stark reminder that the fight to end suicide across all demographics is far from over. It’s a fight that demands our collective effort, compassion, and resources. At The Veterans Club, our call to action is to create opportunities for hope to flourish.

Our process begins with weekly gatherings of veterans and first responders, where we build strong relationships and a supportive community. These bonds empower us to then create and engage in meaningful community activities. Through this active participation, we effectively increase awareness of suicide’s warning signs and showcase our model of community involvement as a powerful way to foster hope and well-being.

This means:

• Taking tours that offer new perspectives and shared experiences.
• Engaging in meaningful activities together that build camaraderie and a sense of purpose.
• Providing strong role models from military and first responder backgrounds who understand their struggles and can offer guidance.
• Doing things everyone can feel proud to be a part of, fostering a sense of accomplishment and belonging.

By connecting, doing, and growing together, we aim to build strong, supportive communities where individuals of all ages feel valued and understood. The Veterans Club is committed to being a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change. Join us in this vital mission. Together, we can turn these tragic statistics around and ensure that every veteran, first responder, and young person knows their life is valued and that help is always available.

Help is available. If you or someone you know needs support, please speak with someone today by calling or texting 988. Veterans, press 1.