Dual diagnosis and suicidal behavior in combat veterans

Suicide and suicidal behaviors amongst combat veterans is an important public health issue. Exposure to military combat predisposes patients to increased levels of major depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, substance abuse, and chronic pain - all of which are important risk factors for suicide. Here, we present a case study of a young combat veteran who presented with an impulsive suicide attempt with a high potential for lethality in the context of depression, PTSD and substance use. On routine admission laboratory work his serum level of testosterone was seen to be low. Given the important role that testosterone plays in the regulation of mood and behavior, we posit that it is a potentially important marker for suicide risk in an already at risk population.