Imagine retiring or finding yourself unemployed after years of service (losing your role as a productive individual; experiencing a decline in income or earning power).

And imagine losing your independence, health or ability to care for yourself on a day-to-day basis.

Then imagine losing long-time friends or associates, one after the other…with increasing frequency.

And then imagine living your whole life with a partner and then having that person die when you are in your golden years.

The compounded losses are agonizing. Devastating.

For some people the pain is so overwhelming that they choose to stop living and quickly die (from a broken heart)…or commit suicide.

If you think someone is at risk for suicide, become involved by showing that you care—listen to their troubles and generally give them hope and encouragement.

And be sure to ask them to talk about their happy memories (the good old days).

And if you are able, organize regular visits from people so they feel wanted and loved.

Melanie Hack
Author of Who Killed My Sister, My friend
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