Strategies for Preventing Suicide in Elderly Individuals Experiencing Stress and Depression

Abstract

Thailand is entering a fully aged society, accompanied by an increasing burden of mental health problems among older adults, particularly stress, depression, and suicide. This academic article aims to synthesize existing knowledge and analyze risk factors associated with suicide among older adults in Thailand, encompassing psychological, social, economic, and health-related dimensions. Based on a comprehensive review of relevant studies and literature, depression, loneliness, bereavement, lack of social support, and economic insecurity were identified as major factors significantly associated with suicidal ideation and behaviors among the elderly. The synthesis further revealed an underlying mechanism linking chronic stress, depressive symptoms, and perceived burdensomeness, which collectively heightened the risk of suicide among older adults. The article proposes suicide prevention strategies at four levels: individual, family, community, and national policy, emphasizing the integration of mental health care, the strengthening of social support networks, and the development of proactive mental health service systems. Key effective practices identified include proactive screening, active involvement of family and community networks, reduction of economic inequality, and the systematic development of suicide-related data and surveillance systems, which together contribute to risk reduction and long-term improvement in quality of life among older adults. Policy recommendations focus on scaling up successful interventions, enhancing collaboration among governmental agencies, community organizations, and health service systems, and promoting sustainable, integrated approaches to suicide prevention within the Thai sociocultural context.