AT WHAT AGE/AGES IS MALE SUICIDE THE MOST PREVALENT IN CANADA? WHY DO CERTAIN AGE GROUPS HAVE HIGHER RATES OF SUICIDE?
In Canada, rates of suicide vary greatly by region, which may provide insight into what age suicide is most prevalent as each province has a different average age. The most staggering statistic is in Nunavut, where the age-standardized mortality rate for suicide in males is 74.2/100 000 population (Statistics Canada, 2017). For females in Nunavut, the age-standardized mortality rate for suicide is 13.0/100 000 population (Statistics Canada, 2017). This statistic highlights the need for greater emphasis on improving men’s mental health. Within Canada suicide is the second leading cause of death among 15-24-year-olds and as many as 8% of youth are thought to attempt suicide annually (Bennett et al., 2015). On top of this, even though approximately 50% of youth who die by suicide visit a primary care provider in the 6 months prior to their death, well documented modifiable risk factors for suicide-related behaviour particularly untreated or poorly treated mental health problems are present at death in as many as 90% of these youth (Bennett et al., 2015). These statistics further emphasize the need for greater understandings of suicide and mental illness, especially in youth/adolescents. In 2008, there were 233 suicides among young Canadians, which accounted for 20.4% of all deaths for people aged 10-19 years (Skinner, 2012). Skinner (2012), states, “In comparison, suicides comprised 1.5% of all deaths in Canada during the same year.” When looking at the comparison between the average number of deaths by suicide in Canada and that of Canadian youth, it becomes clear that suicide among youth is prevalent and requires addressing. Below is a table from Bilsker and White's (2011) article on the male suicide epidemic in Canada. This table shows suicide rates by gender and age group per 100 000.
Bilsker and White’s (2011) article on the silent epidemic of male suicide makes note that in Canada, suicide rates for males peaked at the age group 45-49 then significantly falling and rising again in their 80s. Another finding from Bilsker and Whites (2011) article is the sharp increase in male suicide rates from being relatively low at ages 10-14 and then sharply increasing at ages 15-19 and 20-24. This is indicative of the fact that at certain ages, there may be significantly higher amounts of stress. It is also important to reiterate that untreated mental health problems (particularly depression) are the most significant risk factor for suicide. If left untreated in adolescence, mental health problems may continue and create a higher risk for mental health issues and suicide. Adolescence is a period of large changes within an individual and this can lead to a higher incidence of mental distress. As noted earlier, males are more susceptible to have a more aggressive reaction and are more likely to withdraw when faced with stressful situations. In middle ages, (where male suicide rates peak) there may be a great deal of pressure to excel in their careers as males tend to face higher economic pressures; they provide for their families and having a good career where they are expected to perform is commonplace.
It is important to understand what factors lead to suicide in different age groups so prevention efforts can be tailored and become more applicable towards those at the highest risk. In Canada, the age group 45-49 is when male suicide rates peak and for those aged 15-24 suicide is the second leading cause of death.