Exploring how gender affects Veterans' transition to civilian life and suicide risk
Official title: Gender differences in Veteran reintegration and associated suicide risk
Funded at Portland VA Medical Center · NIH-11145612 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at the different challenges that men and women Veterans face when they leave the military and adjust to civilian life, especially in the first four years when they might be at higher risk for suicide, to find ways to better support them during this important time.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Portland VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project start | November 1, 2022 |
| Project end | October 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I01HX003660-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11145612 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are male and female Veterans who are in the process of transitioning to civilian life within the first four years after military service.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not Veterans or those who have been out of military service for more than four years may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the unique challenges faced by male and female Veterans during their transition from military to civilian life, particularly focusing on the first four years post-service, which is a critical period for suicide risk. By examining various aspects of reintegration, the study aims to identify specific experiences that may increase the likelihood of suicide among Veterans. The approach includes gathering data across six key domains of reintegration, allowing for a nuanced understanding of how gender influences these experiences. The findings will help inform tailored prevention strategies to support Veterans, especially women, during this vulnerable time.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved suicide prevention strategies specifically designed for Veterans, enhancing their reintegration experience and overall mental health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has highlighted the importance of understanding gender differences in health outcomes, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights and has the potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Portland VA Medical Center
Portland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Denneson, Lauren M — Portland VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Denneson, Lauren M
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.