Risk Factors for Completed Suicide in Veterans of Peacekeeping: Repatriation, Negative Life Events, and Marital Status

Abstract

This psychological autopsy study focused on suicide risk factors in veterans of peacekeeping, specifically, a representative sample of Norwegian peacekeepers. A multivariate analysis yielded three dimensions with a unique impact on suicide risk: Involuntary repatriation from peacekeeping service, negative life-events before peacekeeping and marital status. In accordance with previous research into suicidal processes, repatriation probably reflects an event causing severe damage to peacekeepers' self-esteem, which combined with vulnerability and lack of protection could increase suicide risk. Preventive measures should focus on careful personnel selection and follow-up of repatriated individuals.

Keywords:

• military
• peacekeeping
• risk factors
• suicide
• veterans

We thank Grethe Johnsen for her valuable assistance in the inter-rater reliability check of data. This study was supported by the Norwegian Ministry of Defence and by the Norwegian Association for Disabled War Veterans.

Notes

∗p < .05.

∗p < .05, ∗∗p < .01, N = 915.