Collection: Run-4 Veteran Mental Health

According to the department of Veteran Affairs (VA), in 2020, over 1.6 million veterans received care from the VA for mental health issues, though it’s believed that many veterans still do not seek care.

Only 50% of veterans with PTSD and 40% of those with depression seek care within the VA system, often due to stigma, a lack of knowledge about services, or logistical barriers

The most recent report from the VA (2021) found that 17.6 veterans die by suicide each day. This is a sharp concern, as it represents 13.7% of all suicides in the U.S., despite veterans making up only about 8.5% of the population. The VA also reports that 17.6 veterans per day died by suicide in 2019 (the most recent data), which is roughly 1.5 times the rate of non-veteran adults.

These statistics highlight the ongoing need for improved mental health care, as well as greater awareness and resources for veterans, particularly those transitioning back to civilian life or dealing with combat-related trauma.

It is well known exercise, including running, has been shown to have significant mental health benefits, both for the general population and for individuals dealing with mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, and stress. Running, in particular, is an accessible and effective form of aerobic exercise that can promote psychological well-being in several ways.
Exercise, including running, has been shown to have significant mental health benefits, both for the general population and for individuals dealing with mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, and stress. Running, in particular, is an accessible and effective form of aerobic exercise that can promote psychological well-being in several ways.

At Run-4, our goal is to raise awareness about the mental health challenges military veterans face while doing what we can do decrease the related stigmas and provide support where we can.