Systematic Review of Suicide Prevention in Veterans

Abstract: This systematic review updates evidence on the accuracy of methods to identify individuals at increased risk for suicide, and the efficacy/effectiveness and adverse effects of healthcare service interventions in reducing suicide and other suicidal self-directed violence. Important areas of ongoing research and current evidence gaps on suicide prevention are also addressed. This report includes studies relevant to healthcare services provided to Veterans and military personnel in the United States (US). Previous systematic reviews by the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Evidence-based Synthesis Program (ESP) focused on strategies for suicide prevention in Veterans,1 suicide risk factors and risk assessment tools,2 and suicide prevention interventions and referral/follow-up services.3 While many of the studies included in the previous reviews fall outside the scope of this update, relevant studies are included in order to consolidate the evidence.