Suicide rates among middle-aged adults have risen over the past 20 years. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the suicide rate for adults ages 45 to 64 is approximately 18 in 100,000 people. Increased rates have been especially notable for people aged 55 to 64. This article explores the risk factors contributing to this issue and highlights how gender and suicide rates are related.
Suicide Risk Factors for Middle-Aged Adults
Mental Health Issues
Depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions are major risk factors. Data from 2019 suggests that 18% of adults aged 45-64 experienced major depressive episodes that year.
Substance Abuse
Alcohol and drug use can increase the risk of suicide. Certain substances may worsen depression over time. Also, they can promote impulsivity and may be used to ease the apprehension of suicide. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), 27% of adults aged 45-59 reported binge drinking in the past month, and 7% reported illicit drug use, which are significant contributors to suicide risk.
Chronic Pain and Illness
Ongoing physical health problems can lead to feelings of hopelessness. The CDC reports that adults aged 45-64 have the highest prevalence of chronic pain, with approximately 20.4% of this age group experiencing severe pain. Chronic pain and terminal illnesses are significant contributors to suicide risk.
Financial Stress
Economic pressures, job loss, and financial instability can severely impact mental health. Middle-aged individuals often face significant financial responsibilities, adding to their stress. The American Psychological Association (APA) found that 73% of adults aged 45-64 reported money as a significant source of stress.
Gender Differences in Suicide Risk Factors
Middle-Aged Men
Societal Expectations: Men may feel societal pressure to be “strong”. This can make them hesitant to seek help, increasing their risk.
Isolation: Men are more likely to experience social isolation and lack emotional support networks, contributing to higher suicide rates. The National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) highlights that social isolation is a significant predictor of suicide among middle-aged men.
Method of Suicide: Men are more likely to use lethal methods, such as firearms, resulting in higher fatality rates. Men are approximately 11 times more likely than women to use a gun to complete suicide.
Middle-Aged Women
Caregiver Burden: Women often balance caregiving roles with their own needs, leading to increased stress and mental health issues. They are up to 6 times more likely than non-caregivers to experience depression and anxiety. The Family Caregiver Alliance states that 60% of caregivers are women; the average age is 49.
Poor Mental Health: While women are more likely to seek help, they still face significant suicide risk due to factors like untreated depression or anxiety. Women are twice as likely as men to experience depression.
Hormonal Changes: Menopause and other hormonal changes can affect women’s mental health, potentially increasing the risk of depression and suicide.
Recognizing Warning Signs
Before suicide, people tend to show typical signs. That said, there’s no standard way a person will behave. Signs to watch for include:
- Feeling hopelessness or intense emotional pain
- A recent fixation on death and dying
- Having a suicide plan
- Having a recent suicide attempt
- Intense irritability or aggression
- Saying goodbye to loved ones
- Loss of interest in hobbies
- Giving away possessions
- Taking excessive risks
- Becoming withdrawn or isolated
- A sense of sudden calm or improved mood after a low period
While all people may show similar signs, men may be more likely to appear happy, tidy up their living space, and possibly be more aggressive before suicide.
Supporting At-Risk People
- Ask if they plan to kill themselves. Be kind, express genuine concern, and ask directly.
- Listen to them. Don’t judge, interrupt or insult.
- Encourage professional care, like a doctor, counsellor, community organization, etc.
- Check on them often, offer support, and spend quality time with them.
- Share information about resources, like the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-8255) and local services.
Understanding suicide risk factors for middle-aged people lets us address the risks, create solutions, and reduce the occurrence.
Sources
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Suicide Data and Statistics
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) – Major Depression
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Prevalence of Chronic Pain
American Psychological Association – Stress in America: Paying with Our Health
National Center for Biotechnology Information – Social Isolation and Suicide
Family Caregiver Alliance [Family Caregiver Alliance – Women and Caregiving: Facts and Figures
North American Menopause Society – Menopause and Mental Health
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Firearm-Related Suicides
Center for Suicide Prevention – Substance Use Disorder and Suicide