Older Adults

Embracing Life's Later Chapters

Growing older brings its own unique set of challenges. The loss of loved ones, physical health issues, and feelings of loneliness or isolation can sometimes feel overwhelming. If you're feeling hopeless, or if you're considering suicide, we ask you to STAY.

Why STAY?

STAY is a commitment to yourself, to your loved ones, and to the wisdom and experiences you've gathered over the years. It's a declaration to seek help when life's challenges feel too heavy to bear alone. It's a reminder that it's never too late to ask for support, and that you don't have to face your struggles alone.

Understanding the Challenges

We recognize that older adults face unique challenges that can feel overwhelming at times. It's important to remember that it's never too late to seek help and find hope.

You Are Not Alone

Remember, you are not alone. Many older adults have faced similar struggles and have found ways to cope and thrive. There are resources and communities available to support you.

Reach Out for Help

If you're feeling hopeless, reach out for help. Start by calling 988. This is the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, and they're available 24/7 to provide support. You can also reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or healthcare provider and be honest about how you are feeling: If you’ve thought about suicide, let them know.

Remember: The journey to feeling better begins with deciding to STAY

STAY is a simple, powerful message. It's a request for you to stay with us, to stay in this world, and to stay hopeful in the face of life's challenges. It's a message of resilience, strength, and hope. So, if you're struggling, remember to STAY. Reach out for help. And know that there are people who care about you and want you to stay alive.

Find help now

Recognizing Warning Signs

If you observe one or more of these warning signs, especially if the behavior is new, has increased, or seems related to a painful event, loss, or change, it's important to step in or speak up:

  • Talking about death or suicide
  • Seeking methods for self-harm, such as searching online or obtaining a weapon
  • Talking about feelings of hopelessness or having no reason to live
  • Reckless behavior
  • Changes in sleep patterns
  • Increased alcohol or drug use
  • Talking about being a burden to others
  • Uncontrolled anger
  • Putting affairs in order or giving away possessions
  • Showing sudden mood changes
  • Withdrawing from social activities

Remember, these do not necessarily mean a person is thinking about suicide, but they should not be ignored. If you notice any of these signs, it's important to connect and offer help.

Additional Warning Signs for Older Adults

  • Talking about being a burden to others
  • Feeling useless, helpless, or hopeless
  • Talking about having no reason to live
  • Uncontrolled anger
  • Expressing a desire to die or talking about suicide
  • Preoccupation with death and dying
  • Unusual focus on taking care of business and tying up loose ends
  • Giving away prized possessions
  • Making final arrangements, such as making a will, cleaning a house or room
  • Changes in sleep patterns, especially insomnia
Learn how to help

Resources

Find below a list of organizations that provide support for older adults.

If it's an emergency:
Call 911 now

If you’re in distress and need support:
Call or text 988
or chat at 988lifeline.org/chat
Free and confidential support, 24/7

Deaf or Hard of Hearing Crisis Support
Online chat: 988lifeline.org/help-yourself/for-deaf-hard-of-hearing
TTY: Use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988

Crisis Text Line
Free 24/7 support with a volunteer Crisis Counselor
Text HOME to 741741
or message on WhatsApp
Chat online: www.crisistextline.org

More Resources

National Council on Aging
Mental wellness resources for older adults
www.ncoa.org/older-adults/health/behavioral-health

Mental Health Resources for Caregivers
Mental Health America
mhanational.org/mental-health-resources-caregivers

SAGE LGBTQ+ Elder Hotline 
Confidential support and crisis response 24/7
Call 1-877-360-LGBT (5428) 
www.sageusa.org/what-we-do/sage-national-lgbt-elder-hotline

LGBT National Senior Hotline
Call 888-234-7243
Learn more and see hours: www.lgbthotline.org/senior-hotline

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
Suicide prevention resources
afsp.org

AFSP – Living with Suicide Loss
Resources and support group search from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
afsp.org/ive-lost-someone

CDC - Emotional Well-Being
Wellness resources for all ages from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
www.cdc.gov/emotional-wellbeing

More Helplines and Resources →

What to do

If you're thinking about suicide, please stay and reach out for support.

Call now: 988