Active-Duty Service Members: Supporting Mental Health on the Front Lines

Serving in the military requires courage, discipline, and sacrifice. But for many active-duty service members, the battles don’t end when the uniform comes off at the end of the day. Behind the strength and commitment, many face silent struggles with mental health. The numbers remind us just how serious this issue is: in 2023, 363 active-duty service members died by suicide, a 12% increase from the year before. During the same year, there were more than 1,300 reported suicide attempts across all branches of the armed forces.

These statistics are not just numbers. They represent individuals who wore the uniform with pride—sons, daughters, parents, and friends. The stressors of military life are unique and can be overwhelming. Deployments separate service members from their families for months at a time. Frequent relocations disrupt routines and relationships. The expectation to remain strong and resilient often discourages seeking help. In addition, the high-pressure environments and demanding operational tempos can create an atmosphere where mental health challenges feel insurmountable.

The most common contributing factors among those who attempted suicide include relationship problems, mental health diagnoses, workplace challenges, legal or administrative issues, financial stress, and experiences of harassment or assault. When these stressors compound, they can leave service members feeling isolated or hopeless.

But there is hope. Across the Department of Defense and military communities, there are resources designed specifically for active-duty personnel.

These programs provide confidential, accessible, and often immediate help:

• Military OneSource (1-800-342-9647 | militaryonesource.mil): Free 24/7 confidential support for counseling, finances, relocation, parenting, and more.

• inTransition Program (1-800-424-7877 | health.mil/inTransition): Support for those transitioning between duty stations, deployments, or care providers.

• Military & Family Life Counselors (MFLCs): Confidential, short-term counseling available on bases worldwide.

• Chaplains: Trusted sources of spiritual and emotional support available to service members of all faiths.

• DOD Safe Helpline (877-995-5247 | safehelpline.org): Confidential support for survivors of sexual assault in the military.

It is important to emphasize that asking for help is not a sign of weakness—it is a sign of courage. The same strength that service members bring to their duties can be used to reach out for support. Leaders, peers, and family members also play a critical role. Checking in, reducing stigma, and encouraging open conversations about mental health can make a difference.

As we observe Suicide Awareness Month, let’s remember that those who serve on the front lines also deserve front-line support for their mental well-being. Together, we can ensure that active-duty members know they are never alone and that their sacrifices are honored not only in uniform, but in care.