Suicide in teens and the elderly
In addition to the general risk factors for suicide, both teenagers and older adults can be at a higher risk of suicide.
Teenage suicide is a serious and growing problem. The teenage years can be emotionally turbulent and stressful. Teenagers face pressures to succeed and fit in. They may struggle with self-esteem issues, self-doubt, and feelings of alienation. For some, this leads to suicide. Depression is also a major risk factor for teen suicide.
Risk factors for teenage suicide include:
Previous suicide attempt
Mental health disorders
History of abuse or mistreatment
Family history of suicide
Substance abuse and/or alcohol disorders
Financial or social loss
Relationship loss
Isolation or lack of social support
Easy access to methods/means of suicide
Exposure to others who have committed suicide
Warning signs in teenagers:
Talking about suicide
Making statements about feeling hopeless, helpless, or worthless
A deepening depression
Preoccupation with death
Taking unnecessary risks or exhibiting self-destructive behaviour
Being impulsive or aggressive
A loss of interest in the things they normally care about
The highest suicide rates of any age group occur among persons aged 65 years and older. One contributing factor is depression in the elderly that is undiagnosed and untreated.
Other risk factors for suicide in the elderly include:
Recent death of a loved one, isolation and loneliness
Physical illness, disability, or pain
Major life changes, such as retirement or loss of independence
Loss of sense of purpose
Warning signs in older adults
Reading material about death and suicide
Increased alcohol or prescription drug use
Failure to take care of themselves or follow medical orders
Stockpiling medications or sudden interest in firearms
Social withdrawal, elaborate good-byes, rush to complete or revise a will
On average, there is 1 suicide for every 25 attempted suicides.
Witnessing a loved one dealing with thoughts about ending their own life can stir up many difficult emotions. As you’re helping a suicidal person, don’t forget to take care of yourself. Find someone that you trust to talk to about your feelings and get support of your own.
You’re not alone, many people have had suicidal thoughts at some point in their life. Feeling suicidal is not a sign of failure, it means that you have more pain than you can cope with right now. This pain seems overwhelming and permanent, but with time and support, you can overcome your problems and the pain and suicidal feelings will pass. Pick up the phone and call a local crisis helpline, doctor, friend or loved one. They can help you to see solutions that you haven’t thought about. Give them a chance to help. Talking about how you feel, and sharing your emotions can release a lot of the pressure that’s building up and help you identify a way to cope. Remember a suicidal crisis is almost always temporary. Give yourself time for things to change and the pain you’re feeling now to subside. Solutions will be found.
