Expanding Military Psychology: Five Years of Growth and New Findings on Suicide Risk Among Women Veterans

Advancing Military Psychology: Reflections on Progress and Insights into Women Veterans’ Suicide Risk

Over the past five years, Military Psychology has significantly broadened its scope and impact under the leadership contributions of Thomas W. Britt. The journal has moved beyond traditional combat-focused topics to encompass psychological readiness and resilience, family reintegration, diversity and inclusion, and mental health challenges across various service contexts. Methodological rigor has increased through greater use of advanced statistics, longitudinal designs, and translational research that directly connects scientific findings to operational needs. This evolution has enhanced the journal’s visibility, citations, and relevance, positioning it as a key resource not only for military leaders, clinicians, and policymakers but also for understanding high-stress occupations more broadly.

A compelling example of the journal’s applied focus is recent research examining suicidality among U.S. women veterans. Using a nationally representative sample, the study categorized participants into three groups: no suicidal ideation or attempts, suicidal ideation only, and both ideation and attempts. Findings revealed a graded risk pattern, where women with ideation alone showed elevated cumulative trauma, major depressive disorder, and functional impairment compared to those with no suicidality. Those who progressed to attempts were further distinguished by higher rates of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and alcohol/substance use disorders. This highlights that while depression and trauma often drive suicidal thoughts, early-life adversity and substance misuse appear to be critical factors that escalate risk to action.

Britt’s editorial underscores the journal’s commitment to bridging science and practice while looking toward the future. He emphasizes the need for greater accessibility, faster translation of research into actionable interventions, and interdisciplinary collaboration to address emerging challenges such as changing warfare dynamics and ongoing veteran mental health needs. By highlighting nuanced studies like the women veterans’ suicidality research, Military Psychology demonstrates how rigorous, context-specific findings can inform tailored prevention strategies. Ultimately, the field’s success will depend on continuing to integrate psychological readiness with physical readiness, promoting inclusive practices, and ensuring research delivers real-world impact for service members and beyond.

References

Britt, T. W. (2026). Editorial: The past 5 years of Military Psychology and a look toward the future. Military Psychology, 38(2), 105–108. https://doi.org/10.1080/08995605.2026.2617843

Presseau, C., [list up to 20 authors here if known]. (2025). Differentiating U.S. military women veterans with suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, and no suicidal ideation or attempts. Military Psychology. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1080/08995605.2025.XXXXXXX

Salma Cowell PhD