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Physical activity reduces suicide risk

VA Research News Briefs

Physical activity reduces suicide riskPhoto: ©iStock/FatCamera

(06/12/2025) VA researchers from Durham, Salt Lake City, and Connecticut found Veterans engaged in higher physical activity had lower odds of suicidal ideations and less risk for suicidal behavior. The researchers collected data from a national sample of almost 1,100 deployed and non-deployed Gulf War-era Veterans. Half of the Veterans reported they engaged in at least 30 minutes of physical activity five times a week. Of these Veterans, 12% reported experiencing suicidal ideations in the past year, compared to almost 25% of less-active Veterans. Analysis showed the connection between physical activity and suicide risk was independent of other factors such as pain, depression, and PTSD. The results suggest physical activity is an important and modifiable predictor of suicide risk. (American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, May 14, 2025)



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