"I Don't Want to Be Here": Your Life Matters, We Can Prove It
WRITTEN BY: JOE NESTER
Seniors who deal with isolation, the loss of independence, the loss of a spouse, chronic illness, or chronic pain often feel a sense of hopelessness about their future. The issues of failing health and its isolating effects can put patients at a higher risk for suicidal thoughts. Depression, anxiety, and debilitating emotional stress are all symptoms of these types of dramatic life changes.
According to the CDC, suicide among adults 65 and older has shown an upward trend in recent years, particularly among men. Older men, especially those aged 75 and above, have a considerably higher suicide rate compared to older women. White males aged 85 and older have the highest rates of suicide among all demographic groups in the U.S.
The challenge for family members, primary caregivers, and medical professionals is to be able to recognize the signs and language of a patient who might be contemplating suicide as an option. Unfortunately, many seniors no longer have family members who live locally and may only see them a few times a year. According to Jimmy Williamson, PhD, Chief Behavioral Health Officer for Your Health, the most crucial component of suicide prevention is early intervention.
Some of the signs of suicidal behavior can include severe mood swings or statements like "I'm a burden" or "Life isn't worth living," and increased anxiety, agitation, or restlessness. The patient withdrawing from social interactions or giving away cherished possessions can also be signs that they are considering suicide. If a medical professional suspects a patient might be considering suicide, direct questions like "Do you have a plan to harm yourself, and "Do you have the means to carry out that plan?" will give them clear insight into how seriously the patient has considered ending their life.
Cheryl Douglas, Vice President of Population Health for Your Health, stated that "when a patient is exhibiting suicidal behavior, and through questioning, it is discovered they have been having suicidal thoughts, a medical provider can develop a preventative safety plan that is a collaborative effort between the patient and provider." The plan is tailored to the patient's specific needs and risk factors. If a provider feels that a suicide attempt is imminent, they will stay in constant contact with the patient. At the same time, emergency services are alerted to take the patient in for further evaluation.
Your Health considers mental health critical to its complete patient care solution. The mental health division of the care team currently has nine psychiatric nurse practitioners who assess and develop care plans for patients experiencing mental health issues and fourteen behavior health managers who provide the regularly scheduled patient visits and follow-ups.
Suicide prevention is a team effort; caregivers, both professional and family members, should be trained to recognize the warning signs of suicide. Suicide intervention is not a one-size-fits-all proposition. Prevention must be individualized, and cultural background, medical history, and life circumstances must be considered. Suicide prevention combines medical and psychological care, social support, environmental safety, and patient engagement that ensures they feel supported and heard throughout the process.