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#Suicide is one of the leading causes of death in the #UnitedStates, affecting people of all ages, including older #adults. According to the #CentersforDiseaseControl, in 2020, #suiciderates in the #UnitedStates were highest among people 85 years of age and older (20.9 per 100,000). #Men over the age of 85 showed the highest rate of #suicide (52.0 per 100,000).

#Suicidalbehavior is common in older #adults for a number of reasons.

• #Loneliness: No family members or friends nearby to keep them socially connected.

• #Grief: Losing a spouse or other cherished loved one.

• Loss of self-sufficiency: Not being able to do things they were once able to do such as dress themselves.

• Chronic illness, pain or cognitive impairment: Older #adults are more likely to experience chronic conditions such as arthritis, heart problems, mild cognitive impairments and #dementia.

• #Financial troubles: Older #adults may be living on a fixed income and struggle to pay their bills or keep food on the table.

These #behaviors may indicate a serious risk for #suicide, especially if the #behavior is new, has increased; and/or seems related to a painful event, loss, or change.

• Talking about feeling trapped or being in unbearable pain.

• Talking about being a burden to others.

• Increasing the use of #alcohol and #drugs (including prescription medications).

• Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly.

• Sleeping too little or too much.

• Withdrawing or feeling isolated.

• Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge.

• Displaying extreme mood swings.

Other #behaviors may also indicate a serious risk for #suicide, and you should immediately call or text #988 (#988Suicide&CrisisLifeline) or call a #mentalhealthprofessional.

• Talking about wanting to die or to kill oneself.

• Looking for a way to kill oneself.

• Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live.

#James Donaldson notes:Welcome to the “next chapter” of my life… being a voice and an advocate for #mentalhealthawarenessandsuicideprevention, especially pertaining to our younger generation of students and student-athletes.Getting men to speak up and reach out for help and assistance is one of my passions. Us men need to not suffer in silence or drown our sorrows in alcohol, hang out at bars and strip joints, or get involved with drug use.Having gone through a recent bout of #depression and #suicidalthoughts myself, I realize now, that I can make a huge difference in the lives of so many by sharing my story, and by sharing various resources I come across as I work in this space.  #http://bit.ly/JamesMentalHealthArticleFind out more about the work I do on my 501c3 non-profit foundationwebsite www.yourgiftoflife.org                            Order your copy of James Donaldson's latest book,#CelebratingYourGiftofLife:From The Verge of Suicide to a Life of Purpose and Joy

www.celebratingyourgiftoflife.com

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