Understanding Suicide Risk in MST Survivors with Prior Sexual Trauma

What is it about?

Our study investigates the repeated experience of military sexual trauma among veterans and service members and its link to suicide risk. We found that self-critical thoughts significantly contribute to this risk. By surveying 383 individuals who faced such trauma, we learned that changing these negative self-perceptions could potentially be key to preventing suicide. Cognitive Processing Therapy, which targets traumatic beliefs, may offer an effective treatment. This insight could lead to better support for those who have bravely served their country.

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Photo by IIONA VIRGIN on Unsplash

Photo by IIONA VIRGIN on Unsplash

Why is it important?

This research addresses the critical and timely issue of suicide risk among military personnel who have endured sexual trauma, an area that requires urgent attention due to the lasting impact on our service members' mental health. What sets this study apart is its focus on the specific role of self-directed negative thoughts as an influence on suicide risk. By pinpointing this factor, the study offers a direct and actionable approach to therapy, emphasizing Cognitive Processing Therapy's potential to change these harmful patterns of thinking. Given the current push to improve mental health support for veterans, this work not only contributes to a deeper understanding but also proposes practical interventions that could save lives.