How Understanding, Community, and Modern Therapies Can Save Lives
“The bravest are surely those who have the clearest vision of what is before them, glory and danger alike, and yet go out to meet it anyway.” — Thucydides
For many veterans, the battle doesn’t end when they return home. While some find peace in civilian life, others continue to fight a silent war against depression, PTSD, and emotional pain. Why veterans are at higher risk for suicide is a question we must urgently address, especially as the suicide rate among veterans remains significantly higher than in the general population.
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, an average of 17 veterans die by suicide each day. The numbers are even more staggering when we consider that veterans make up only 7% of the U.S. adult population, yet account for 13.5% of all suicides. These aren’t just statistics. They’re sons, daughters, brothers, sisters, and friends—heroes who deserve better.
Whether you’re in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Glendale, or Gilbert, Arizona, it’s time we do more. From awareness and prevention to treatment options like TMS and ketamine, this post explores what’s available—and what we can all do to help.
The Psychological Weight of Service
Why veterans are at higher risk for suicide stems from a complex set of emotional, psychological, and environmental challenges. Many have experienced trauma during combat, lost close friends, or witnessed violence that most civilians will never understand. This can lead to conditions such as:
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Major Depressive Disorder
- Substance Use Disorders
- Moral Injury or Survivor’s Guilt
Unfortunately, these conditions often go untreated. Many veterans hesitate to seek help due to stigma, fear of judgment, or frustration with limited resources—especially when dealing with delays or red tape at the VA.
In cities like Glendale and Gilbert, veterans often struggle in silence, disconnected from services that could save their lives. This is why community-based care options are essential.
Barriers to Care: Why Getting Help Isn’t Always Easy
While Suicide prevention for veterans is a national priority, access to timely mental health care is still a major challenge. Common barriers include:
Limited VA Appointments
Wait times at VA facilities can be weeks or months. For someone in crisis, that delay can be deadly.
Geographic Isolation
Many veterans live in rural areas without nearby mental health professionals or veteran-specific services.
Mental Health Stigma
Military culture often values toughness and resilience. Asking for help may be seen as weakness, leading many to suffer in silence.
Co-occurring Disorders
Depression, anxiety, and PTSD often come hand-in-hand with substance use, making treatment more complicated.
That’s where local support and modern therapies make a big difference.
Treatment That Works: How Ketamine and TMS Offer Hope
Traditional treatments like talk therapy and SSRIs work for many—but not for everyone. That’s why veterans need access to alternative, science-backed solutions like Ketamine therapy and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
Ketamine for Depression and PTSD
Originally used as an anesthetic, ketamine has emerged as a rapid-acting antidepressant. In studies, many patients report significant relief after just one or two sessions. Ketamine works differently than traditional antidepressants by quickly restoring synaptic connections in the brain.
Veterans suffering from combat-related depression or PTSD often experience near-immediate relief with ketamine. At Bella Vida TMS in Scottsdale or Phoenix, this treatment is offered in a safe, clinical setting and monitored by licensed professionals.
TMS for Lasting Brain Healing
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive, FDA-cleared treatment for depression and OCD. TMS uses magnetic pulses to stimulate underactive areas of the brain. Unlike medications, there are no systemic side effects, and sessions require no sedation or downtime.
TMS is especially effective when other treatments have failed. For veterans, it’s a game-changer—providing healing that goes beyond symptom management. TMS is also covered by Tricare, making it an accessible option for many military families.
Community Support and Crisis Resources
It’s important to remember that mental health care is not just about clinical treatments—it’s about community, support, and accessibility.
Resources That Save Lives:
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988, then press 1
- Tricare Behavioral Health Services: tricare.mil
- VA PTSD Resources: ptsd.va.gov
- Bella Vida TMS: Personalized care, accepting most insurance plans
At Bella Vida TMS, we go beyond treatment. Our team works with referring providers, helps patients navigate FMLA paperwork, and ensures care is coordinated with existing medical teams. Whether you’re a veteran, a spouse, or a loved one, you are not alone.
What You Can Do to Help a Veteran
If someone you love is a veteran struggling with depression or suicidal thoughts, here are a few ways you can help:
- Reach out regularly. Let them know you care and are available to talk.
- Encourage them to seek treatment. Mention options like ketamine, TMS, and talk therapy.
- Normalize mental health care. Remind them that strength also means knowing when to ask for help.
- Connect them to resources. From Tricare to crisis hotlines, having a plan can be life-saving.
Every Life Is Worth Saving
Veterans have sacrificed so much for this country. It’s time we return the favor by investing in their mental health, removing barriers to care, and offering hope through treatments that work.
At Bella Vida TMS, with locations in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Glendale, and Gilbert, we’re here to serve those who served us—with TMS, ketamine, and a compassionate, personalized approach to healing.
FAQ
❓ Why are veterans at higher risk for suicide compared to civilians?
Veterans are at increased risk due to exposure to combat trauma, PTSD, depression, and moral injury. Many also face barriers to care, like long VA wait times and mental health stigma. These factors combine to heighten suicide risk if left unaddressed.
❓ What mental health services are available for veterans outside the VA?
Veterans can access community-based treatments like ketamine therapy, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), and talk therapy through private providers like Bella Vida TMS in Phoenix, Gilbert, Scottsdale, and Glendale. These services are often covered by Tricare and offer faster access to care.
❓ How does ketamine therapy help with combat-related depression and PTSD?
Ketamine therapy works rapidly to relieve severe depression and PTSD by rewiring brain pathways and reducing suicidal thoughts. Many veterans feel noticeable relief within hours or days, even after other treatments haven’t worked.
❓ What is TMS and how can it prevent suicide in veterans?
TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is an FDA-cleared, non-invasive treatment that stimulates parts of the brain involved in mood regulation. It’s proven effective for treatment-resistant depression and can help reduce suicide risk in veterans who haven’t responded to medication.
❓ Can Tricare cover ketamine and TMS treatments for veterans?
Yes, Tricare often covers TMS and may cover ketamine therapy in certain situations. Bella Vida TMS helps veterans navigate insurance approvals and paperwork so they can access the life-changing care they need without delay.
References
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs – 2022 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report
https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/suicide_prevention/data.asp - National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) – Suicide Prevention
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/suicide-prevention - Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) – Military and Veteran Families
https://www.samhsa.gov/military-families - Veterans Crisis Line – 988 Press 1
https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/ - American Journal of Psychiatry – Ketamine for Suicidal Ideation: A Systematic Review
https://ajp.psychiatryonline.org/doi/10.1176/appi.ajp.2019.19060603 - National Library of Medicine – TMS Treatment for Depression
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4911751/ - Tricare – Behavioral Health Benefits Overview
https://www.tricare.mil/CoveredServices/Mental/Behavioral - National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) – Veterans & Active Duty
https://www.nami.org/Your-Journey/Veterans-Active-Duty
