CO-CHAIRS:
Suicide is among the leading causes of death in middle-aged adults worldwide. Despite of this, research on suicide and self-harm, as well as investment in prevention efforts targeting this age group has received considerably less attention than similar efforts focused on other age groups.
Middle adulthood, typically defined as the period between 40 and 64 years of age, is often characterised by relatively good physical health but also by substantial personal, social and family responsibilities. Individuals in this stage of life continue to navigate evolving relationships, including supporting growing and grown children and caring for ageing parents. They often remain actively engaged in their communities and continue to their careers. At the same time, gradual declines in physical and mental capacity may increase vulnerability to stress, health problems and psychological distress. Consequently, suicide and self-harm during middle adulthood are frequently associated with the unique challenges, transitions, and cumulative pressures experienced during this life stage.
Suicides and non-fatal self-harm among middle-aged adults account for a substantial proportion of potential years lost due to premature mortality, disability and ill health across countries and regions. Beyond their direct impact on individuals, these events can have profound and enduring influence on multiple generations of family members, including children, spouses or partners, siblings, and ageing parents.
Given the significant individual, familial, and societal burden associated with suicide and self-harm in middle-aged adults, there is a clear need to strengthen research, raise awareness, and prioritise prevention efforts for this population. The proposed Special Interest Group (SIG) aims to advance these objectives.
OBJECTIVES:
The primary goal of this special interest group is to enhance understanding of suicide and self-harm in middle adulthood as major public health and societal concerns. The SIG will promote research, foster collaboration, and strengthen international networks among researchers and professionals dedicated to the study and prevention of suicide and self-harm in middle-aged adults.
Specific tasks and objectives:
- To provide an international platform for the exchange of knowledge, evidence, and best practices related to suicide and self-harm in middle-aged adults.
- To facilitate and strengthen international research collaboration and interdisciplinary networking in this field.
- To identify knowledge gaps, produce statistical overviews, and conduct systematic reviews to advance the evidence base.
- To organise symposia, workshops, and other scientific activities on suicide and self-harm in middle-aged adults at international conferences.
- To support and collaborate with other SIGs on initiatives relevant to the middle-aged population and promote integration of middle-adulthood perspectives across suicide prevention research.
If you would like to join this SIG, please fill in the contact form below:
