WASHINGTON — The number of American service members who died by suicide in 2024 was 471, an 11% decrease from 2023, according to a Pentagon report. The suicide rate per 100,000 service members decreased in 2024 compared to 2023.

The report showed that 302 active duty service members died by suicide in 2024, along with 105 National Guard members and 64 reservists. Despite the year-over-year decrease, suicide rates among active duty troops gradually increased between 2011 and 2024, while rates among National Guard and Reserve members remained largely stable during that period.

According to the Pentagon report, military suicide statistics generally reflect U.S. population suicide rates when adjusted for age and gender because a majority of military personnel are young and male. The report said the overall trend in suicide rates for active duty service members mirrors the increase in U.S. population suicide rates over time. The Pentagon report stated: "It remains to be seen whether the short-term decreases observed in 2024 in the Active Component will signal a change in long-term trends."

Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin declared suicide prevention a priority during his tenure. Top leaders in the Pentagon and across the military services have worked to develop programs to increase mental health assistance for troops and to bolster education on gun safety, locks and storage.

The Brandon Act, passed in 2021 following a Navy sailor's suicide, allows service members to seek help confidentially for any reason, at any time, and in any environment. Most service members who died by suicide in 2024 were enlisted men under the age of 30.

Nearly half of active duty service members who died by suicide in 2024 had a mental health diagnosis such as alcohol use disorder, depression, or anxiety, according to the report. Additionally, 45% of active duty service members who died by suicide in 2024 had intimate relationship problems, while one third had workplace difficulties.

A Pentagon news release stated: "Recognizing that every death by suicide is a tragedy, the Department will continue to take action to support our men and women in uniform and their families, promote the wellbeing and resilience of the force, and take steps to prevent suicide in our military community." The national suicide and crisis lifeline is available by calling or texting 988 and via an online chat at 988lifeline.org.