Different age groups experience unique stresses and life tasks.  

 

According to The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, in 2020, the suicide rates were higher among adults ages 25 to 34 years (18.35 per 100,000) and 75 to 84 years (18.43 per 100,000), with the rate highest among adults ages 85 years or older (20.86 per 100,000).

 

Research has also shown that many older adults who die by suicide visited a physician within a month before their death, highlighting the need to address risk of suicide in health care.  

 

Strengthening protective factors (I.e., certain personal and external characteristics) can help in reducing the risk of negative outcomes in adults. Some of these protective factors include: 

• Life skills, such as one’s ability to problem solve 

• Life experience, such as learning from previous challenging moments  

• Availability of mental health services and other support services 

• Self-image and high self-esteem 

• Healthy and secure relationships