Health Happenings

Suicide and the Elderly

By Sandi Browne, LPCC

Are you 70 years of age or older? If not, perhaps you have a parent or friend in that age group. The Suicide Prevention Resource center recently released facts on the 1999-2003 suicide rates in New Mexico. That report listed people 70 and above with the highest suicide rate in the state at 11%. This is greater than the 15 to 19 year-olds, who traditionally have led in suicide rates. Younger New Mexicans make more attempts, but the majority of elderly attempts at suicide result in death. In 2005, nationally, an average of one older person killed themselves every one-hour and 37.3 minutes. That same year, New Mexico was number four in the nation in number of suicides per capita for all ages.

These statistics are scary, if not understandable. Adjusting to aging, challenging health issues, sometimes multiple losses, and financial difficulties all can happen to individuals as they get older. Even when an aging person does not have these problems, the possibility exists, which can lead to anxiety and depression.

How many of your aging loved ones are sad, feeling hopeless, and down? Since depression has consistently been linked with suicide in research, it is important that at any stage of life, it be taken seriously. It is particularly important for the elderly to not let depression slide deeper into overwhelming sadness and hopelessness.

Keep in mind that a person living with depression does not have the same thoughts as others. A friend or loved one might view a depressed person's situation more positively with hope, while the depressed may only see overwhelming sadness looming ahead. They are in emotional pain with chemical changes happening in their brains.

Depression has many symptoms, but if you see several of the following symptoms in yourself or those you love for more than a few weeks, it may be depression.

Persistent sad, anxious, numb, or empty moods
Feelings of worthlessness, helplessness, guilt
Feelings of hopelessness and pessimism
Loss of interest in life, hobbies, and activities that once were enjoyed
Inability to sleep or sleeping more than normal
Decreased or increased appetite
Restlessness, irritability, nervousness

If these symptoms are present in you or those you love, seek professional help.

Depression changes the physical make-up of the brain, often requiring medication and counseling. Talk to your doctor, your minister, or mental health professionals. If you are having suicidal thoughts, call the National Suicide Hotline at 1.800.273.TALK (8255).

Depression is serious, especially as we age. It is important to take action and reach out for assistance for yourself or others. Help is available. We do not have to endure emotional pain.

Sandi Browne is a Licensed Professional Clinical Mental Health Counselor who works with The Heritage Program for Senior Adults in Ruidoso. The Heritage Program offers older individuals an opportunity to improve the quality of their lives by reducing distress and maximizing their ability to function independently. Heritage provides transportation from Alamogordo. For more information, call (505) 257-0491.

Otero County Community Health Council

700 E. 1st St.
Suite 720
Alamogordo, NM
88310
(575) 443-8100
Fax (575) 437-2949
oterochc@tularosa.net
oteromch@netmdc.com