Hope takes many forms, but for thousands of women Veterans across the country, it’s coming in the form of life-changing support and intervention.

For years, suicide rates among women Veterans had been rising, casting a shadow over the countless individuals who served their country. But for the first time in two decades, new data from the 2024 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report delivers an optimistic shift: the suicide rate among women Veterans decreased by 24.1% between 2021 and 2022.

Experts say this drop is no coincidence. It’s the result of targeted VA suicide prevention programs that have strengthened access to mental health care and widened the safety net for those in crisis.

Behind this encouraging decrease are some equally noteworthy numbers. Between 2021 and 2022, the report shows:

• A 12% decrease in the use of firearms in women Veteran suicide deaths.
• A 30% drop in firearm and suffocation suicide rates among women Veterans.
• A 29.6% reduction in age-adjusted suicide rates among women Veterans receiving care from the Veterans Health Administration (VHA).

While these statistics signal real progress, the work is far from over. The VA continues to refine, expand, and enhance its programs to ensure the most vulnerable are reached before they face crisis.

Women Veterans are the fastest-growing population in the Veteran community—and the fastest-growing group of Veterans accessing VA services. Recognizing this shift, VA has invested in trauma-sensitive, tailored care, focusing on early intervention. Some of the key resources include:

• Women Veterans Program Managers at every VA medical center to connect Veterans to specialized care.
• Expanded mental health care, including telehealth and peer support to tackle PTSD, depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders.
• Postpartum and reproductive mental health services, addressing unique concerns related to pregnancy and perinatal challenges.
• Military sexual trauma support, ensuring survivors receive free, personalized services during recovery.
• Whole Health approach, integrating traditional and alternative therapies like yoga, meditation, and stress management.

The VA is also deepening its research into data-driven interventions, ensuring suicide prevention treatments evolve based on real-world findings. Programs like the Women’s Health Research Network and the VHA Assault and Harassment Prevention Office actively contribute to improving care environments and advocacy efforts.

Suicide is preventable. Support systems exist. And, as these numbers show, change is happening.

But suicide prevention isn’t the work of just one agency—it’s a collective effort. Veterans, families, friends, and advocates all play a role. If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available 24/7 through the Veterans Crisis Line at Dial 988, then Press 1, or via online chat at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat.

As the VA continues its mission to strengthen outreach and improve care, one fact remains clear: there is hope, and it’s saving lives.

Learn more about how you can help at the Office of Suicide Prevention.