Exercise Can Reduce Suicide Attempts, but not Suicidal Ideation or Mortality

Canada: A new study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders investigated the relationship between exercise and suicidal ideation has found that although exercise may reduce suicide attempts, it does not significantly decrease suicidal ideation or mortality.

Despite previous research suggesting that exercise can have a positive impact on individuals with mental or physical conditions, the relationship between exercise and suicidal ideation or risk has remained largely unexplored.

The study analyzed 17 randomized controlled trials involving 1021 participants investigating the impact of exercise on suicidal ideation in subjects with mental or physical conditions.

A meta-analysis was conducted using a random-effects model, and the studies were assessed for risk of bias using the Risk of Bias 2 tool. The primary outcome of interest was suicidal ideation. The review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA 2020 guidelines and included a search of multiple databases up to June 21, 2022.

The study revealed the following key takeaways:

1. Depression was the most common condition investigated. The average follow-up period was 10 weeks.
2. Exercise did not significantly decrease post-intervention suicidal ideation when compared to control groups.
3. Exercise significantly reduced suicide attempts when compared to inactive controls.
4. 14 of the 17 studies (82%) were at high risk of bias.

However, the study was limited by the relatively small number of studies included in the analysis, as well as their heterogeneity and underpowered nature. Despite these limitations, the study highlights the potential of exercise interventions in reducing suicide attempts among those with mental or physical conditions.

The researchers of the study pointed out that “Further, larger studies are needed to assess the impact of exercise on suicidality, and caution against drawing firm conclusions from their preliminary findings. the study serves as a valuable contribution to our understanding of the complex relationship between exercise and mental health.”

Reference:

Fabiano N., Gupta A., Fiedorowicz J., Firth J., Stubbs B., Vancampfort D., Schuch F., Carr L., Solmi M.; The effect of exercise on suicidal ideation and behaviors: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials; Journal of Affective Disorders (2023, March 4). doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2023.02.071