True or false: depression is a normal part of aging. 

If you guessed “true,” you’re not alone. Although depression is not a normal part of aging, about 58% of older adults believe that it is.  In honor of World Suicide Prevention Day (September 10th), this post looks at suicide and depression in older adults, some of the challenges that can affect their mental health, and warning signs that may be easy to miss. We’ll also share tips for talking with a senior who may be struggling and resources that can help. 

 

Suicide & Seniors 

• According to the CDC, older adults (age 75+) have one of the highest suicide rates.  
• Suicide rates for adults under age 35 have been decreasing, but the rates for older adults have increased. 
• These cases may be under-reported due to the way older adults show suicidal behaviors and act upon them. Some experts think rates may be underreported by more than 40%. 
• Around 58% of older adults (age 65+) think that feeling depressed in a normal part of aging.  

 

Unique Stressors 

• Living with at least one chronic disease 
• Living with chronic pain  
• Loss of independence/difficulty with everyday tasks 
• Loneliness, especially from outliving a spouse, many friends and family members, and/or even doctors and other professionals they relied on 
• Feeling isolated 
• No longer being able to do things they enjoyed, like reading, due to health issues 
• Living on a fixed income and struggling financially 
• Cognitive impairment (seniors with cognitive impairment and dementia have a higher risk for suicide) 
• Older adults may not seek help for mental health due to a variety of reasons including: 
• Thinking the symptoms are a normal part of aging 
• Stigma surrounding mental illness/feelings of shame 
• Not knowing what types of treatment are available 
• Transportation issues (feeling isolated, not able to go to social events, etc.)

 

Warning Signs 

• Stockpiling medication 
• Suddenly wanting to edit or change their will  
• Not eating or drinking  
• Increased drug or alcohol use 
• Sudden change in sleep habits 
• Acting recklessly 
• Feelings of hopelessness 
• Withdrawing socially 
• Saying goodbye to loved ones 
• Talking about feeling like a burden 
• Giving away prized possessions 
• Sudden interest or disinterest in religion 
• Self-neglect  

 

Reaching Out 

• Have the conversation in person. If that’s not possible, speaking over a video call is the next best option. 
• Be patient. It may take a little bit for someone who’s struggling to open up, or it may take multiple conversations. 
• Watch your language and tone- does it sound dismissive, blaming, or accusatory? 
• Start with a caring, supportive statement (e.g., “I’ve noticed you don’t seem like yourself lately. I’m worried about you” or “can you tell me what’s been going on?”). 
• Know important signs to listen for: 
  • Have they made suicidal attempts in the past? 
  • Do they have a specific plan or date in mind? 
  • Do they have access to what they plan to use to self-harm (e.g., medications, firearms, etc.)? 
• Be there for the person after the conversation. Even a brief check in every once in a while shows the person that you genuinely care about them. 

 

Community Resources 

• Immediate Support 
  • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline– dial 988 to talk with someone (English, Spanish) 
  • Michigan Medicine Psychiatric Emergency Service (734) 936-5900 or (734) 996-4747 (both numbers available 24/7) 
  • National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Helpline 1-800-950-6264  
  • Veterans Crisis Line– dial 988, then press 1 
  • Washtenaw County Crisis Support (734) 544-3050  

• Mental Health 
  • Catholic Charities Washtenaw County– Behavioral Health department offers individual therapy, both in person and over Zoom. Call (734) 926-0155 for more information. 
  • EMU Community Behavioral Health Clinic– offers low-cost psychological services to Washtenaw and surrounding regions. Call (734) 487-8489 for more information. 
  • Jewish Family Services of Washtenaw County– Thrive program offers counseling and bills insurance directly. Sliding scale fees also available for clients without insurance. Call (734) 769-0209 for more information. 
  • The Women’s Center of Southeastern Michigan– Soundings program offers sliding scale/pay what you can therapy. Call (734) 973-6779 for more information. 

For more mental health resources, please visit the Senior Resource Connect Online Senior Resource Directory. 

If you or an older adult is in immediate danger, please call 911.