Suicide and Depression in Older Adults: Greater Awareness Can Prevent Tragedy

The statistics on suicide among people older than age 60 are frightening. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that in 2011, more than 9,000 older adults died by suicide. Depression and economic insecurity are major risk factors for suicide in elders, and depression remains a misunderstood illness. But suicide is preventable, and treatments, including psychotherapy, work well for older adults. It's important to know the signs of suicide so you can help prevent it. This article, a call for advocacy and awareness, offers practical information on identifying signs and symptoms of depression and suicide, and actions to take to prevent tragedy.