There’s a heartbreaking epidemic that doesn’t make the headlines nearly enough: the rise in military suicides. These men and women—our brothers, sisters, sons, daughters, friends—dedicated their lives to defending our freedoms. Yet, when they return home, many face battles far greater than any they fought overseas. And for too many, those battles end tragically.

Why? Because as a society, we’re failing them. We’re failing to provide the tools, resources, and community they need to transition from the structured world of the military to the chaotic, sometimes overwhelming “real world.”

The military instills discipline, purpose, and camaraderie, but what happens when the uniform comes off? For many, the sense of purpose they once had disappears. They lose their tribe. They lose the structure. And often, they feel like society doesn’t understand—or care. That’s a recipe for isolation, depression, and in too many cases, despair.

What’s Driving the Rise?

1. Mental Health Stigma
   Despite efforts to destigmatize mental health struggles, many service members still see seeking help as a sign of weakness. They’re trained to be strong, unyielding, and resilient—admitting they’re struggling feels like betraying that training.
2. Lack of Transitional Support
   Moving from military life to civilian life is like stepping into a completely different universe. Jobs don’t work the same way. Civilians don’t communicate the same way. The values and skills that made them exceptional in the military don’t always translate to the corporate world, leaving many veterans feeling lost.
3. Disconnect from Community
   In the military, you’re part of a family—a brotherhood or sisterhood that has your back no matter what. In civilian life, it’s easy to feel alone, like no one really understands your experiences or the weight you carry.

What Can We Do as a Society?

First, we need to stop paying lip service to “supporting the troops” and actually take meaningful action. Here’s how:

1. Expand and Promote Mental Health Services
   It’s not enough to have mental health services available; we need to actively ensure veterans know about them, feel comfortable using them, and trust the process. That means embedding mental health care into the military experience—not as an afterthought but as a core part of their service and transition.
2. Create Comprehensive Transition Programs
   When soldiers leave the military, they need more than a handshake and a “thank you for your service.” They need career training that translates military skills into civilian opportunities, financial education, mentorship, and a clear path forward. They need to know they have options and people who are invested in their success.
3. Foster Community Connections
   Veterans thrive when they’re surrounded by people who understand them and their journey. Programs that connect veterans to each other and to their local communities can be life-changing. Whether it’s through veteran groups, sports leagues, or entrepreneurship programs, fostering a sense of belonging is crucial.
4. Change the Narrative Around Asking for Help
   Seeking help should never be seen as a weakness. Society needs to encourage and celebrate vulnerability, showing that it takes real courage to face your struggles head-on. Sharing stories of veterans who’ve overcome challenges can inspire others to do the same.

The Role of Transition Programs

One of the most powerful ways we can support veterans is by creating programs that guide them through the transition from military to civilian life. These programs need to be practical, empathetic, and tailored to the unique challenges veterans face.

Imagine a program that pairs veterans with mentors who’ve successfully navigated the transition. A program that offers career placement, entrepreneurial training, and mental health services all in one place. A program that doesn’t just say, “Good luck out there,” but instead walks with them every step of the way.

Programs like this can save lives—not just by providing practical support but by reminding veterans they’re not alone, that they matter, and that they still have a purpose.

A Call to Action

As a society, we owe it to our veterans to do better. It’s not enough to thank them for their service one day a year. We need to fight for them the way they fought for us. We need to create a world where they feel valued, supported, and understood.

This isn’t a government problem—it’s a societal one. Every single one of us can play a role, whether it’s by supporting veteran-focused organizations, creating opportunities in our businesses, or simply being there to listen.

The rise in military suicides is a tragedy we can’t afford to ignore. These brave men and women sacrificed so much for us. It’s time we do the same for them. Together, we can turn the tide. Together, we can save lives.