Fort Polk Suicide Data (2019) and Regional Context

In 2019, Fort Polk (now Fort Johnson), Louisiana reported 20 soldier suicides. For comparison, Fort Hood (now Fort Cavazos), Texas reported 28 suicides the same year.

Regional Suicide Rates (CDC 2018 Data)

• Louisiana: Highest age-adjusted suicide rate nationally (2018)
• Texas: Ranked 10th nationally (2018)

Interpretation Considerations

• Absolute numbers reflect base population size (Fort Hood ~36,500 active duty vs. Fort Polk ~8,500)
• Rate per 100,000 is more meaningful than raw counts
• Military suicide rates exceed age-matched civilian rates
• Army implemented SP2.0 (Suicide Prevention Program) with embedded behavioral health, means restriction, leadership engagement

Resources

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (press 1 for Veterans Crisis Line)
• Military OneSource: 800-342-9647
• Fort Polk Behavioral Health: 337-531-3171
• Chaplain services, Military Family Life Counselors

Suicide prevention requires community vigilance, accessible care, stigma reduction, and lethal means safety. Every loss represents a preventable tragedy.