To review the literature on economic evaluations of public health interventions targeting prevention of mental health problems and suicide, to support evidence based societal resource allocation. A systematic review of economic evaluations within mental health and suicide prevention was conducted including studies published between January 2000…

These authors argue that estimates of the net economic cost of suicide should go beyond accounting for direct medical costs and indirect costs from loss of earnings by those who commit suicide. There are potential savings from (a) not having to treat the depressive and other psychiatric disorders of those who kill themselves; (b) avoidance of…

The neuropathological correlates of suicide in older persons have received little research attention. Our recent study of elderly suicide victims from an Australian forensic medicine department (n = 143), unlike a previous case-control study, did not find an increased prevalence of Alzheimer's disease (AD) in older persons who committed suicide…

Examines the role that hopelessness plays in the suicidal ideation of a geriatric population (N=60). Results show that the relationship between hopelessness and suicidal ideation depends on the level of depression. Highlights the importance of considering depression and hopelessness simultaneously when assessing and treating geriatric suicidal…

Presents some sociohistorical concepts about suicide as framework for considering contemporary attitudes among elderly. Includes verbatim report of group therapy session in long-term care facility in which residents openly discuss their feelings about suicide of fellow resident a day earlier. Illustrates importance of emotional outlet, such as…

Explored environmental factors related to suicide in 463 long-term care facilities. Staff turnover, size, auspices, and per diem cost related to suicidal behavior and deaths from suicide. More suicides occurred in larger facilities and facilities with higher staff turnover. Religious or "other" facilities experienced more suicidal deaths than…

Fifty-two nursing home residents received either a life review or a friendly visit and took part in repeated testings to determine lasting effects of the life review. Results showed a trend toward continued and by year three significant improvement over time in those who received the life review on measures of depression, life satisfaction, and…

Indirect self-destructive behavior (ISDB) is associated with direct suicide potential, dissatisfaction with the treatment program and with life in general, confused reasoning and judgment, poor prognosis for discharge, the absence of religious commitment, and significant losses in the patient's life. ISDB is an alternative form of suicide. (Author)

Examined extent and nature of suicide, attempted suicide, and intentional life-threatening behavior in long-term care facilities and differences in patterns of suicidal behavior by gender, age, and race. Results from 463 facilities revealed sex differences in terms of method chosen, and age differences on type of suicidal behavior and likelihood…

This study focuses on the relationship of intensity of religious commitment to use of indirect life-threatening behavior among elderly, chronically ill hospital patients. Findings indicate intensity of religious commitment is a potentially more meaningful measure of religiosity than formal church membership. (Author)

Surveyed administrators of 463 long-term care facilities concerning overt suicides and intentional life-threatening behaviors. Data revealed that White males were highest risk group. Refusal to eat, drink, or take medications were most common suicidal behaviors. Depression, loneliness, feelings of family rejection, and loss were significant…