Dementia Diagnosis at Younger Age Raises Suicide Risk, Study Finds
Research tracking nearly 600,000 Britons over 18 years found that individuals with a psychiatric condition at the time of diagnosis or under 65 faced a similar risk. The highest risk of suicide was observed in the first three months after diagnosis: the likelihood of death by suicide was 6.5 times higher.
"The dementia diagnosis can be devastating, but the immediate period after diagnosis is often the most challenging," said Dr. Charles Marshall, the study's main author, a clinical lecturer at the Wolfson Population Health Institute, Queen Mary University of London, and an honorary neurologist at the Institute.
Patients diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease at a young age often face an unfamiliar diagnosis, one that is unexpected and hard to accept, said Beth, vice president for care and support at Alzheimer's Society. Beth Kallmyer noted that she was not involved in the study.
"One of the most important things you can tell someone diagnosed with Alzheimer's is that they are not alone and that support is available," she said.
While fewer cases of dementia occur in younger individuals, chronic diseases and behaviors might also contribute, said Kallmeer. "Obesity, diabetes, and sedentary behavior increase rapidly in young people, all of which are risk factors for dementia," she said.
The study, published Monday in JAMA Neurology, included only 95 individuals who committed suicide after being diagnosed with dementia, according to Marshall. However, this number did not diminish the study's importance in identifying the most at-risk groups and the risk of suicide lasting beyond the initial three months.
Previous research has also established a link between dementia and suicide, including a study from Yale University in 2021. Kallmeyer stated that the likelihood of suicide was twice as high in older adults with Alzheimer's diagnosed than in older adults without dementia.
Challenges and Risk Factors
Younger individuals diagnosed with dementia may face unique challenges and risk factors compared to older adults. These include:
- Adjustment issues: Diagnosed with dementia at a younger age, individuals may encounter significant adjustment issues, such as the loss of independence, social isolation, and a need to redefine roles and relationships.
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Military veterans diagnosed with dementia might have a higher risk of suicide due to ongoing mental stress and trauma, which can lead to PTSD.
- Depression and Anxiety: Depression and anxiety are common comorbidities with dementia. Their presence significantly increases the risk of suicide as they can exacerbate the emotional distress associated with dementia.
- Social isolation and loneliness: Younger individuals with dementia may experience more pronounced social isolation and loneliness, increasing the risk of depression and suicide.
- Lack of support systems: Absence of robust support systems, including family, friends, and community networks, may increase the suicide risk in younger individuals with dementia.
Depression and Anxiety
Depression and anxiety are common risk factors for suicide in both younger and older individuals with dementia. Early detection and appropriate treatment are crucial. Seeking medical advice, engaging in therapy, and creating a supportive network can help manage these symptoms and improve overall well-being.
Suicide Prevention and Support
It is essential to seek help immediately if you, or someone you know, experience thoughts of suicide or mental health issues. In the USA, dial or text 988 to reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Global resources include the International Association for Suicide Prevention and Befrienders Worldwide.
Information, Support, and Resources
Seducing yourself with knowledge, particularly about early-onset Alzheimer's, can be a helpful first step in supporting someone diagnosed at a younger age. It's essential to start planning health and financial matters early, so individuals with dementia can participate in decision-making.
If you or someone you care about requires support in coping with suicide or mental health crises, contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, which provides resources and referrals to treatment centers. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) offers a comprehensive list of resources for Alzheimer's caregivers.
