Leveraging Nudges to Improve Mental Health in At-Risk Individuals

Historically, suicide rates in the military have been lower than those in the general population. However, since 2008, the rate of military suicides has exceeded that of the demographic-adjusted general population. Mental health issues in the Army National Guard (ARNG) are often exacerbated by a culture of silence, as well as the fear of possible career ramifications from revealing these problems. 

As suicides have reached epidemic proportions in the Guard, it is critical to understand the intricate system of beliefs and values that prevents at-risk individuals from seeking help.

TDL was approached by the Indiana National Guard to identify the behavioral drivers of poor mental health, and the barriers to seeking psychological treatment.