Saturday, June 9, 2012

Suicides Surge Among American Troops in 2012; 154 Suicides of Troops in 1st 155 Days This Year

The Washington Times website reports today (June 9, 2012) that suicides are surging among America's troops, averaging nearly one a day this year  -- the fastest pace in the nation's decade of war.

The 154 suicides for active-duty troops in the first 155 days of the year far outdistance the U.S. forces killed in action in Afghanistan -- about 50 percent more -- according to Pentagon statistics.

The numbers reflect a military burdened with wartime demands from Iraq and Afghanistan that have taken a greater toll than foreseen a decade ago.

Studies for the increase in suicides have pointed to combat exposure, post-traumatic stress, misuse of prescription medications, and personal financial problems.

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