In 2023, mental health problems were the leading cause of hospitalization for active-duty US military personnel, according to a new report from the Defense Health Agency (DHA). Nearly one-third of the approximately 62,800 hospitalizations last year were for mental health treatment. The US Army accounted for the majority of mental health cases, followed by the US Navy and Air Force.
Among male patients, adjustment disorders and alcohol abuse were the most common diagnoses, while female soldiers were most frequently diagnosed with major depressive disorder and post-traumatic stress. On average, these patients stayed in hospitals for five days, but some required up to 34 days to recover.
Mental healthcare has long been a challenge for the US Armed Forces. Earlier this year, the US Government Accountability Office (GAO) highlighted a shortage of mental health workers in its report. Additionally, the DHA has been criticized for failing to monitor the progress of troops seeking mental health treatment and ensuring timely access to care.
In response to these challenges, the DHA has called for a more holistic and integrated approach to treating mental health problems among military personnel. The agency emphasizes the need to address the unique health challenges faced by active-duty personnel in order to better meet their health needs.
