VA Report: Veteran Suicides Down in 2023, But Minnesota Loses About 100 Veterans a Year

(KNSI) — A new federal report shows the number of veterans who died by suicide dropped in 2023, but Minnesota officials say the fight is far from over.

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs released its 2025 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report, covering data from 2001 through 2023. The report found that 6,398 veterans died by suicide in 2023, 44 fewer than the year before, and that the 2023 total was lower than 14 of the previous 15 years.

The data also shows continuing challenges, including more than six in ten veterans who died by suicide in 2023 had not been receiving VA health care in the last year of their life. Suicide rates per 100,000 veterans also rose slightly for both men and women that year, and rates remain elevated for veterans between the ages of 18 and 34. Among veterans whose deaths were reviewed by VA suicide prevention teams, the most frequently identified risk factor was pain.

The Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs estimates the state loses around 100 veterans to suicide each year. The MDVA says it is working with local, state and federal partners to expand access to mental health services for service members, veterans and their families.

The MDVA offers several free resources, including cable gun locks available by mail, a tool the VA says can be lifesaving for someone in crisis. Free suicide prevention coasters with crisis information are also available for American Legion and VFW posts. A statewide map also lists locations that accept voluntary, temporary firearm storage.

Veterans or anyone concerned about a veteran can reach the Veterans Crisis Line any time by calling 988 and pressing 1, texting 838255, or chatting online by clicking here. County Veterans Service Officers are also a local first point of contact. Find one by clicking here.

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