Recognizing the Stressors that Can Signal Suicide Risk

PHOENIX (July 10, 2026) – For Veterans and military-connected individuals, suicide risk is a serious issue requiring sustained vigilance and social awareness to prevent unnecessary death or serious injury.

As a mental health matter, suicide risk is usually linked with serious conditions like depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and addiction. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has long prioritized these conditions for suicide prevention.

VA emphasizes that other life stressors can also become factors that increase suicide risk. Unaffordable bills, job loss, or insufficient food can impact sense of stability and hope.

These factors deserve attention, VA says.

Suicide prevention requires attention to relationship pressures, employment stability, finances, housing, and more before they escalate and become life-threatening.

Here’s how to recognize the signs in someone you know, and how to get help if you’re the one struggling.

Learn more: This recent VA News article shares tips to recognize suicide risk and access immediate help.