Characteristics of Chinese suicide attempters admitted to a geropsychiatric unit

Abstract

Our study confirms previous Western reports that depressive disorders are commonly manifested in elderly suicide attempters. There were differences in the motives and methods employed for the suicides, possibly due to cultural difference and/or sample source. Most of the suicide attempters exhibited a favourable response with hospitalization.

Attempted Suicide in Older People: A Review of the Evidence

“…In view of the identified challenges, what this review supports firstly is the importance of our social and cultural backgrounds which, as Yang et al (2001) and Chan et al (2007) point out, significantly influence the expression of any of the contributing factors identified, as well as defining the barriers to seeking professional support. Full assessment with attention to sociocultural factors as well as the optimum management of mental dis orders is required, as is the promotion of more appropriate problem solving methods (International Association for Suicide Prevention, 2014).…”

“…None of the comparison subjects had bipolar disorder. Similarly, Yang et al (2001) also found that depressive disorders (major depression or dysthymic disorders) were the most common diagnoses for older Taiwanese attempters but organic mental disorders were rarely diagnosed. In the UK study by Dennis et al (2005), approximately 40% of both selfharm and control groups experienced severe life events during the 6-month study period; comparable with earlier UK studies.…”

“…Sharlin et al (1997) emphasised the importance of honouring and caring for elderly Israeli within the family; responsibilities which have been formally expressed in legislation. While Chinese elders were traditionally provided with a high level of respect and care from family, modernization and industrialization of Taiwan has resulted in larger extended families being replaced by a more nuclear family structure (Yang et al 2001). In response, Kua et al (2003) suggest that adequate community services should be provided for families to reduce tensions that could arise in caring for an elderly relative.…”

“…This contrasts with previous findings where a significant proportion were widowed or not married or where those who were married constituted the smallest proportion of the sample of males with attempts. In the study by Yang et al (2001), 60% of attempters were unmarried at the time of the attempt, with social isolation or loneliness cited as motives by twenty of the older Taiwanese attempters. In the study by Ruths et al (2005), married persons were under-represented, whilst widows were over-represented (41% and 45% respectively).…”

“…In the study by Ruths et al (2005), married persons were under-represented, whilst widows were over-represented (41% and 45% respectively). Yang et al (2001) found that family problems accounted for approximately half of the attempts with some attempters attributing their motivation to children that were not filial. Others feared being a burden to their children.…”