Two active-duty Marines took their own lives in September, the lowest monthly figure for the year since March.
The Marine Corps' suicide prevention program office said in its monthly statistical report that another 11 of its troops attempted suicide, the fewest of any month in 2012.
So far this year, 41 Marines have committed suicide, surpassing the 32 recorded last year and 37 in 2010.
Two active-duty Marines took their own lives in September, the lowest monthly figure for the year since The Marine Corps recorded 52 suicides in 2009, the highest annual figure it has experienced.Two female Marines are among this year's suicides, according to the service's demographic profile that accompanies its monthly report.
Nineteen of the suicides this year have been among married Marines.
Thirty-two of the 41 self-inflicted deaths were troops between the ages of 17 and 25.
Military officials say post-traumatic stress, substance abuse and family and relationship problems are the primary factors behind troop suicides.
Among its several initiatives to reduce self-inflicted deaths in its ranks, the Marine Corps is conducting a "forensic" study of recent suicides to see what those troops were doing in the days leading up to their deaths.
Marine suicides reported in August
Officials say that information can help them identify troops at risk and get them help.
The Marine Corps operates a prevention hotline and website that can be reached at 877-476-7734 or www.dstressline.com.
Commentary: Suicides have been prevalent in all branches of the military, discussing such matters during my service years was unheard of. I served in the U.S. Navy from 1986-1990, experienced shipmates taking their own lives for undetermined reasons. In today's military, it can be clearly stated that the military life isn't for everyone, however, once that contract is signed you're under obligation to honor it. With the current Middle East situation still going on, it's not surprising that the suicide rates have fluctuated through the years.
I've personally spoken with many service members who've served in the middle east, because of my current job as a taxi driver. Many members have expressed that they're glad there's help available for those contemplating suicides, most importantly P.T.S.D. = Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. I have a family member who served in the military suffering from P.T.S.D, it's been tough for the family dealing with that. The doctors treating said individual have stated that he's suffering from some form of depression.
I genuinely hope the medical personal helping the marines and other members of the armed services, are actually listening to what they're being told, not just giving prescription medications.
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