(CNN)– Suicides in the military increased in 2023. According to a new report by the Pentagon, there were 523 suicides across the military last year. That’s compared to 493 suicides in 2022. While the Army recorded the most suicides of any military branch in 2023, officials say preliminary numbers found a decrease in Army suicides this year. Military officials say the reason for the Army’s improvement is because of an emphasis on safe storage for guns and drugs. The military also made a renewed effort to limit stress in soldiers’ lives. To address the increase in suicides, the military has improved access to mental healthcare, along with reducing stigma and obstacles to service members seeking care. Service members also have the option to call the Veterans-Military Crisis Line. For more on suicide prevention resources available for veterans here in the Midlands, click here. Categories: News Tags: U.S. military