How the Pandemic Has Increased Suicidal Thoughts

Research from the University of California said 43 percent of Americans over 65 reported loneliness before the COVID-19 pandemic, and the crisis has exacerbated the situation, causing thoughts of suicide to grow among the older population, according to Next Avenue . "This is especially true in those individuals who do not have family members or friends in the area to assist them," notes Drexel's University Kimberly Garcia. Data amassed by the Suicide Prevention Resource Center in 2018 calculated that suicide rates were higher among adults ages 45 to 54 and 55 to 64, peaking among adults ages 52 to 59 (21.56 per 100,000), The rate for ages 65 and over is 17.36 per 100,000. "Major life changes can lead to depressed thoughts, as we get older," says Bradley University Professor Julie Smirl. "Difficulty finding a job, the loss of a spouse, finding out you have cancer, moving to a long-term care community, having your kids take away the keys to your car — for many, it's hard to balance those emotions." Jerry Reed at the Education Development Center has outlined three signs that may indicate someone is suicidal: withdrawal from people, lack of energy, or turning to alcohol or drugs; emotional distress; and dramatic behavioral changes.