Being in a recession isn’t much fun, but it turns out, it might be good for our health. Not just in a character building way, either: physical health.

In a study focused on mortality rates and life expectancy in the years 1920 to 1940,  researchers looked specifically at six causes of death: cardiovascular disease, tuberculosis, cancer, flu and pneumonia, motor vehicle deaths and suicide.

The only one that increased in down years was suicide. But suicide represented less than 2 percent of all deaths. Overall, mortality improved.

Why? They’re not sure. Maybe less pollution with less industrial activity? Less smoking and drinking?

In general, it can’t be denied that richer countries are healthier than poorer countries. But why not think of it as a silver lining to the position we’re in? After all, it can’t hurt. We know a positive outlook contributes to better health.