Thousands of Australians served in the army, navy and air force between 2001 and 2016.

From this group, 56 died during deployment and another 373 died by suicide.

Is this surprising?

Suicide is the leading cause of death for people under 35 — the main age group in the defence force.

However, the military can offer a protective force: men serving full-time or in the reserves are half as likely to die by suicide as other men.

But once they're discharged, it's a different story: veteran men under 30 are suiciding at double the rate to other Australian men their age.

Veterans over 30 are also 18 per cent more likely to die by suicide than average.

If you would like to talk with someone about your mental health phone Lifeline on 13 11 14 or MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978.

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