The VA has gone a long way toward addressing the epidemic of veteran suicide. Just recently they reported that they’ve now set a record for the number of veteran suicide prevention screenings and evaluations completed.

In one recent month alone, of all veterans who’d received VA care over the past year, 88% had an annual suicide risk screening.

Of those veterans who were at risk for suicide, 96% had a comprehensive evaluation and a support plan put in place within 24 hours.

It hasn’t always been this way. Statistics were grim in the past: 60% of veteran suicides weren’t getting VA care.

In 2024 the VA’s Office of Inspector General issued a report showing that there had been a systemic failure to follow up with veterans at risk for suicide.

After a national review of the VA’s suicide risk screening and evaluation training, as well as adherence to the program and oversight, they concluded that staff training for suicide prevention screening was severely lacking.

For one thing, not all staff were trained in using the Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (aka Risk ID). Not only does the scale identify people at risk, but also the severity level and how to interpret it. The big problem, it seems, was that while the training was available, it was optional. Additionally, there was no system to follow up to ensure staff had taken the training.

The VA OIG made several recommendations, and apparently those are working.

One positive step the VA has taken is to connect with veterans who haven’t been enrolled in VA health care. Now, in 2026, they’ve enrolled over 125,000 veterans — who will get the risk evaluations.

If you’re in trouble (or know a veteran who is), reach out to the Veterans Crisis Line. People are there 24/7. Just dial 988 and Press 1. Or text 838255. Or chat online at VeteransCrisisLine.net. You don’t need to be receiving VA health care or benefits to get help.