Cohen Veterans Network Study Highlights Gender-Specific Needs in Military Suicide Prevention

Event summary

  • Cohen Veterans Network Institute for Quality (CVN-IQ) published a systematic review in PLOS One on April 14, 2026, focusing on military-affiliated women's perspectives on lethal means safety in suicide prevention.
  • The study found that U.S. women veterans face suicide rates 92% higher than civilian counterparts, with firearm suicide rates 144% higher in 2022.
  • Key themes included the impact of military experiences on firearm perspectives, the role of relationship dynamics in firearm storage decisions, and the importance of trauma-sensitive, gender-informed counseling.
  • CVN has treated over 100,000 clients since 2016, with women accounting for 32% of its active duty and veteran clients.

The big picture

The study underscores the critical need for gender-specific approaches in military suicide prevention, addressing a gap where most research has been gender-neutral. With women veterans facing disproportionately higher suicide rates, this research could influence broader mental health policies and clinical practices. CVN's role as a leading provider of mental health services for post-9/11 veterans positions it to drive meaningful change in this area.

What we're watching

Implementation Challenges
How CVN will integrate these findings into its clinical practices across 24 clinics in 21 states and internationally.
Funding and Partnerships
Whether the collaboration with Face the Fight® will lead to additional research or expanded suicide prevention initiatives.
Policy Influence
The pace at which gender-informed lethal means safety counseling becomes a standard in military and veteran mental health care.