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Veterans experiencing housing instability are at increased risk of suicide. The objective of the present study was to explore whether correlates of suicide-related morbidity among unstably housed Veterans vary by gender and identify implications for improved care for these Veterans. The study cohort included 86,325 Veterans who reported current housing instability between October 1, 2013, and September 30, 2016.
Key points include:
- Among unstably housed female Veterans, being younger than 40 years was associated with more than double the odds of having an indicator of suicidal ideation and >12 times the odds of having an indicator of a suicide attempt.
- The presence of mental health and substance use conditions as well as a positive screen for military sexual trauma were associated with increased risk of suicide morbidity among both women and men.
- Further research should explore tailored interventions to address the complex needs of unstably housed Veterans and how suicide prevention can be woven throughout.