Older Gay Men and the Risk of Suicide | The Doctor Weighs In

By: Loren A. Olson, MD

Medically reviewed by Patricia Salber, MD, MBA

Updated April 1, 2021

Suicidal thinking is a common but treatable problem in older gay and bisexual men. Choosing the right therapist is critical.

Photo Source: Adobe Stock Photos

Suicide rates in the United States have surged in recent years,1 while in other countries the rates have fallen. Although this rise was particularly steep for women, it increased substantially for all middle-aged Americans, a group whose suicide rate had been stable or falling since the 1950s. This article will focus in particular on suicide in older gay men.

New: Dr. Salber‘s Review Notes appear at the end of the story.

Risk factors for suicide

A confluence of risk factors2 may lead to suicide, including:

• serious mental and physical health conditions including pain
• access to lethal means
• stressful life events including divorce or unemployment;
• relationship issues
• financial problems
• trauma and abuse
• suicide of family or friends.