Boomer Suicide On the Rise

Psychology Today, May 2013

SUMMARY:

The Boomer generation, which is generally considered people born after WWII (between 1946 and 1964), is having a difficult time in their Golden Years. Many of these Boomers, these pioneers of civil rights, counterculture and feminism, are facing a hard time with aging, especially while facing financial hardship, and when struggling with their health (and healthcare)--both physical and mental. The latest CDC (Center for Disease Control) Report showed a 28% increase in suicide among Boomers (it should be noted, however, they start "Boomers" at age 35, which is perhaps way too young for the traditional label of Boomer). This generation had unusually high adolescent suicide rates while the were growing up, so it's interesting to see this idea of escape or ending it resurfacing later in their lives. The study is interesting from my POV because it highlights issues Boomers face that have previously gone unnoticed, highlighting how complex it is to age in America:

• We're living longer, but not necessarily preparing ourselves for it. Despite working longer, Boomers have found themselves not saving nearly enough for their longer lifespans, and the resources for retirement that were once suitable are now dried up or vastly smaller. Struggling with poverty and a loss of power, professionally, financially and personally is also cited as a potential reason for the suicide spike.

• The spike calls into question the place of the elderly and those at the end of life in a culture that worships youth; the number of Boomers having cosmetic surgery has grown, and they have also become the largest purchasers of cosmetics online.  Not being able to fit into the mold of beauty or not feeling valued as a person by society can lead to feelings of depression, which, coupled with poor coping and mental health, has been defined as one of the reasons for suicide.

• Other "young person" issues like prescription pill dependence heavily affect an older population; when numerous pill prescriptions is often the medical solution to aging, the elderly are finding themselves addicted, or turning to pills as a means to end it all.

Interesting article, also a very good look into Boomer suicide specifically among aging African Americans.

SITE: http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/black-womens-health-and-happiness/201305/cdc-suicide-the-rise-mostly-white-baby-boomers