New research from the Veterans Affair Department shows that suicide rates among male veterans aged 18-29 years has increased significantly in the past couple of years. The rate went up 26% from 2005 to 2007, and the VA believes most of the vets in this age group served in either Iraq or Afghanistan.

The small positive in this frightening data is that veterans who use the VA-provided health care seem to have a much lower risk of suicide than those who refuse care. The VA has heightened efforts to combat post traumatic stress disorder, hiring thousands of mental health professionals and even establishing a suicide hotline for veterans and military members in distress. The hotline claims to have rescued over 6,000 from suicide.

The VA calculated the numbers using Centers for Disease Control and Prevention numbers from 16 states. In 2005, the rate per 100,000 veterans among men ages 18-29 was 44.99, compared with 56.77 in 2007, the VA said. It did not release data for other population groups.

In addition to a rise in suicide among this group, the Army has also experienced more deaths of active duty soldiers from suicide last year than any other in history.

"Why do we know so much about suicides but still know so little about how to prevent them?" Shinseki said. "Simple question, but we continue to be challenged."

To lend your support to Iraq and Afghanistan veterans and families of veterans, please choose IAVA as your Cause on SocialVibe. You can also help by supporting TWLOHA, who are dedicated to providing support and generating hope for those suffering from depression and are at risk for suicide.

via AP