Featured Studies Highlight #3: Women In Research

STUDY TITLE: STRENGTHENING SUICIDE PREVENTION EFFORTS FOR WOMEN VETERANS THROUGH THE VETERANS CRISIS LINE

STUDY OVERVIEW:

While the suicide rate among women Veterans is increasing, the unique characteristics associated with suicide risk among women veterans are currently not well understood. To better understand these characteristics, and how to better address suicide risk among women veterans, usage data from the Veterans Crisis Line (VCL) was examined.

STUDY PURPOSE: 

The suicide rate among women Veterans has increased substantially in recent years. While the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has invested extensive resources toward preventing suicide among Veterans, including through the Veterans Crisis Line (VCL), prior research on Veteran suicide prevention has focused largely on male Veterans. Research has identified potential unique characteristics associated with suicide risk among women veterans, creating a need for further investigation into best practices for suicide prevention with this population

GOALS/OBJECTIVES:

The objective of this research is to understand and develop recommendations to better address the suicide prevention needs of women Veterans who utilize the Veterans Crisis Line (VCL). Findings from this study will inform recommendations for strengthening crisis intervention services to prevent suicide among women Veterans. 

STUDY RESULTS:

Results from this study have not yet been reported, and are expected after research concludes in 2023.

HOW DOES THIS IMPACT VETERANS:

The findings of this study will be used to develop recommendations for enhancing the Veteran Health Administration’s crisis intervention and broader suicide prevention efforts for women Veterans.