Re: “Why suicide rates are so high among older adults in Washington” (Nov. 24, Psychological Well being Undertaking) and “High suicide rate among seniors is a tragedy for entire community” (Dec. 4, Opinion):
We applaud The Seattle Occasions for highlighting the danger of suicide amongst older Washingtonians and the editorial board’s name to readers to help seniors’ psychological well being and social connections. Past these glorious recommendations, we wish to provide some views on the position of deadly means in suicide.
At Forefront Suicide Prevention, we’ve lengthy been involved about suicide amongst seniors. Within the highest threat group, males ages 80-84, a surprising 85% of suicides contain firearm use. Remedy overdoses are essentially the most frequent kind of suicide try.
The excellent news is that limiting entry to firearms and medicine in occasions of disaster can shield folks in opposition to suicide. We encourage everybody to study courageous and accountable actions folks can take to safe firearms and drugs within the dwelling.
Good sources embody the American Basis for Suicide Prevention’s partnership with the Nationwide Capturing Sports activities Basis and our personal web site (intheforefront.org), which incorporates sources on suicide prevention amongst seniors.
Suicide amongst older adults is an pressing public well being downside, but it surely’s one we are able to tackle by way of elevating consciousness, connecting with others and conserving one another secure from deadly means in occasions of disaster.
Rebecca Vaux, Forefront Suicide Prevention communications director, and Jeffrey Sung, M.D., College of Washington Medical Assistant Professor and Forefront college adviser
