While new data shows the suicide rate in the military dropped 15 percent last year, there was also an increase among Army National Guard and Reserve soldiers taking their own lives, Philly.com reported.
The numbers demonstrate a decline in suicide among the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps -- giving hope that prevention programs are effectively working.
However, the spike in suicides among reserve soldiers -- most of which live in remote areas, far away from adequate care -- is making officials wonder if those programs are reaching out far enough.
According to the data, the amount of Army National Guard and Reserve suicides increased from 140 in 2012 to 152 in 2013 -- exceeding the amount of suicides among active duty soldiers. In 2013, there were 151 active duty soldier suicides compared to 185 in 2012.
On Friday, the Pentagon will release a report on suicide numbers, though the numbers are assumed to be different than those provided by other services, Philly.com said.
According to the military branches, deaths in the Navy accounted for the majority of suicide figures, MSNBC said. The Navy reported a 25 percent drop since 2012 when 59 people committed suicide; last year, the number was at 44. The Marines saw three fewer suicides this year, from 48 to 45, and the Air Force went from 51 to 49.
Some military officials claim it's too soon to declare success in suicide prevention efforts.
"I think we've changed the cultural mindset - that it's OK for a sailor or a soldier or an airman or Marine to come forward and ask for help," said Rear Adm. Sean Buck, the Navy's officer in charge of prevention programs. "We're trying to reduce the stigma that used to exist."
