Research in Kentucky to Explore Impact of Military Suicides

With the rate of suicides among military personnel continuing to rise, a University of Kentucky professor is leading a study to investigate the effect those deaths have on family and friends left behind. Based on previous research, it’s estimated that around 40% of Kentuckians know someone who has taken their own life.

Dr. Julie Cerel says that number may be higher among veterans.

“We’re really combining survey research with in-depth qualitative research so that we can hear people’s stories and hear about the significant impact their loss had on their lives," says Dr. Cerel.

Cerel is focusing on families and military personnel in Kentucky, which is home to Ft. Knox, Ft. Campbell, and the National Guard.

The study received funding from the U.S. Department of Defense. Last week the Army reported 38 confirmed or suspected suicides in July, the highest one-month total since the military began tracking such data.