“In the first few weeks following Jack’s death, we received several alarming letters from other kids,” Martin said. While this initially added to the Martin’s sorrow, it ultimately propelled them into positive action!”
— HONOLULU, HI, UNITED STATES, 01.15.2024,
Story by Capt. Christopher kim
Military Adolescents face unique challenges and stressors that can impact their mental health.
DID YOU KNOW “fast-paced changes to home life and routines is the constant element across most suicide catalysts?”
On the Pediatric Symptom Checklist, school-aged military children scored high risk for emotional and behavioral problems at 2.5 times higher than national norms.
Military adolescents who attend civilian schools have higher rates of negative social and emotional outcomes, including violence and victimization, gang affiliation, substance use and abuse, depression, and suicidal ideation than nonmilitary students who attend the same schools.
Stress from a parental deployment also results in elevated anxiety and self-reports of low quality of life in military school-age children, which subsequently impacts social, emotional, and academic functioning.
Boys were less likely to report experiencing sadness or hopelessness, depressive symptoms, and suicidal ideation (9th and 11th graders only) compared to girls.
Learn more about our journey and impact on mental health, suicide prevention of our adolescents and how VETERANS can help!
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