65 of every 100,000 men over the age of
65 will commit suicide. Common risk factors include widowhood,
chronic illness, and social isolation. This population feels very
alone and feel like a burden, especially if they no longer see
themselves as a productive member of society.
We can prevent this by support and
education. As a younger person, be sure to include elserly family
members in your life. This can make a positive impact on their mental
health, and esentially save their life. These men who commit suicide
often long for a relationship because they feel isolated.
Volunteering in elderly homes is another good way to make connections
with the elderly who would otherwise not have any.
In addition, it is best to know the
warning signs or someone planning to commit suicide. Getting help for
something thinking about suicide is crucial. Warning signs include
cleaning up their will, talking about feeling hopeless or worthless,
talking about death or about being a burden, isolating themselves,
loss of interest, giving away prized possessions, and making
after-death arrangements. If you see these warning signs in others,
do not keep it a secret. Open the dialogue. Ask if they have ever
considered suicide. Do not minimize the person or shame them out of
committing suicide. Empathize with them and, most importantly,
listen. Let them know that you care, and that many people feel the
way they do. If in immediate danger, call the national suicide
helpline, 1-800-273-TALK.
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