Last year, a record 160 United States soldiers committed suicide. In 2008, the figure was 140.
Most soldiers killed themselves after completing missions in Iraq or Afghanistan. US Army officials say they were unable to deal with traumatic experiences in the combat zones, despite extra psychological support. However, officials have pointed out that one-third of those who died had not yet deployed to combat missions in Iraq or Afghanistan.
The US Ministry of Defence believes some military personnel fail to seek help with mental problems because they are scared of the negative consequences for their career.
Photo of veteran's monument in Plano, Texas by Road Fun (flickr)
Photo by Road Fun (flickr)
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I have always wondered why there is such a high level of mental disease amongst the US population. Also the lack of public health care makes these people have no access to mental health treatment. Since unemployment is so high, the only option is to join the Army.
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