Navy Faced Mental Health and Long Deployment Concerns Before USS Lincoln
Summary
The U.S. Navy is addressing concerns about sailors' mental health and long deployments after reports of suicide attempts aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln, an aircraft carrier deployed in the Middle East. The ship has been at sea for nearly nine months, longer than usual deployments, and some sailors and lawmakers say the crew is overworked and lacks proper supplies.Key Facts
- At least two sailors reportedly tried to jump overboard from the USS Abraham Lincoln, but were rescued.
- The ship's deployment was expected to last six to seven months but has been extended close to nine months with limited port calls.
- Family members and lawmakers say the crew lacks access to basic hygiene products and good nutrition.
- The Navy denies an increase in suicidal thoughts or attempts aboard the ship and says mental health support is available.
- Long deployments can cause stress and mental health problems for sailors, a former Navy commander explained.
- The Pentagon's inspector general started investigating Navy suicide prevention efforts in early 2024.
- Suicide rates among active-duty military personnel have generally increased between 2011 and 2024, despite an overall decrease in military suicide rates.
- Most active-duty suicides in 2024 involved males under 30 and were caused by gunshot wounds.
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