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Chronic dyspnea and suicide in elderly men
S L Horton-Deutsch1, D C Clark, C J Farran
1Rush University Graduate College of Nursing, Chicago, Illinois.
Hospital & Community Psychiatry
|December 1, 1992
Summary
Chronic dyspnea, or difficulty breathing, may be a previously unrecognized risk factor for suicide in older adults. This study highlights the complex interplay of factors contributing to suicide in this vulnerable population.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Psychiatry
- Public Health
Background:
- Suicide in older adults is a significant public health concern.
- Understanding the multifaceted risk factors is crucial for prevention efforts.
Observation:
- A psychological autopsy study examined 14 older adults who died by suicide and experienced chronic dyspnea (difficulty breathing) prior to death.
- The majority of cases involved white men with diagnosable psychiatric disorders but no prior mental health treatment.
- Common co-occurring conditions included chronic heart or lung disease and recent physician contact.
Findings:
- Subjects often exhibited fiercely independent and inflexible personality traits.
- Experience with debilitating illness in themselves or loved ones was also prevalent.
- A potential link between chronic dyspnea and increased suicide risk was identified.
Implications:
- Healthcare professionals should be aware of chronic dyspnea as a potential indicator for suicide risk assessment in older adults.
- This finding underscores the need for integrated care approaches addressing both physical and mental health.
- Further research is warranted to explore the relationship between respiratory distress and suicidal ideation.