Veteran suicide report released

The Department of Veterans Affairs released its National Veteran Suicide Prevention Report in February 2026, analyzing data through 2023. Total veteran suicides fell slightly from 6,422 in 2022 to 6,398 in 2023, averaging 17.5 deaths per day.

Despite this marginal decline, the report highlights a staggering gap in outreach: 61% of veterans who died by suicide in 2023 had not received VA health care during their final year of life. This disconnect underscores persistent barriers to care as the crisis evolves.

The VA maintains suicide prevention as its top clinical priority, offering same-day emergency mental health services at all facilities. However, the data reveals that reaching those outside the system remains a critical challenge. Physical pain, homelessness and health problems continue to be primary risk factors for the veteran community, particularly among those ages 18 to 34.

If you have questions or need assistance applying for VA health care, locate your nearest DAV service office at benefitsquestions.org.