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Depression and suicide rates are on the rise in the United States and U.S. Veterans are particularly at risk, accounting for 1 in 5 deaths by suicide.

In the Bronx, the James J. Peters Veterans Affairs Medical Center (JJPVAMC) has made suicide prevention one of its top priorities. Investigators at the JJPVAMC have developed a comprehensive research program that includes both treatment and observational studies that aim to develop a better understanding of the neurobiology of suicidal behavior in veterans. A better understanding of the neurobiology of suicidal behavior will help improve treatment targets and ultimately provide personalized medicine. If you are a healthy United States veteran or a veteran suffering from depression, consider participating in one of the following research studies:

The Bronx VA offers two treatment studies that examine new psychotherapy treatments for veterans who are at high risk for suicide:

1)      Project Life Force (PLF) is a group psychotherapy program that meets for (10) 90-minute sessions. The treatment seeks to help veterans with emotion regulation difficulties and help them develop a safety plan for when they feel suicidal. Call Sarah at

(718) 584-9000, ext. 5149 for more information.

2)      Safe Actions for Families Encouraging Recovery (SAFER) is a family-based psychotherapy treatment that meets for four 90-minute sessions. This treatment seeks to help veterans work together with their loved ones to develop and implement suicide safety plans. Call Page at (718) 584-9000, ext. 3021 for more information.

For those individuals who are not interested in treatment studies, but want to help improve the understanding of the neurobiology of depression in veterans, there are opportunities to participate in observational research:

• Observational research study: Recruiting healthy veterans and those with depression. The study involves an MRI scan of the brain alongside interviews and psychological tests. Participants can be reimbursed up to $525 for their time and travel. Call Abby at (718) 584-9000, ext. 3635 for more information.

Lastly, in addition to research studies, the JJPVAMC offers standard, evidence-based treatments for veterans at risk for suicide. If you are a service member or veteran in crisis, or if you are a family member or friend concerned about one, there are specially trained responders ready to help, 24 hours, 365 days. The Veterans Crisis Line connects those in crisis, or their concerned family and friends, with qualified, caring VA responders through a confidential toll-free hotline, online chat, or text-messaging service. Please call 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1 to connect with a responder at the National Veterans Crisis Line. Alternatively, you can send a text message to 838255 to connect with a VA responder.