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NCMH behind new national report on suicide amongst middle-aged Irish men

15/03/2018

Institute of Technology Carlow’s National Centre for Men’s Health (NCMH) is behind a new report launched by the HSE and the Men’s Health Forum in Ireland in Dublin today that examines why middle-aged Irish men have the highest rate of suicide of all age groups in Ireland.

The report, funded by the HSE’s National Office for Suicide Prevention (NOSP), was produced by the National Centre for Men’s Health (NCMH) at the Institute’s healthCORE centre. It sets out a series of recommendations for helping to assist in the reduction of suicidal behavior in middle-aged men.

Former Republic of Ireland international Jason McAteer officially launched the report as the focal point of an international men’s health symposium at Dr. Steeven’s Hospital.

The aim of the report was to explore the factors underpinning the higher suicide rates among middle-aged men at risk of marginalisation. It identifies particular risk factors associated with increased psychological distress among more marginalised groups of middle-aged men. These include: mid-life transitions; decreasing life and career opportunities; unfulfilled aspirations and expectations; deteriorating physical health; increasing pressures associated with the provider role at middle-age; societal challenges to middle-aged masculinity; rejection and isolation. The stigma attached to mental health and to men seeking support was also highlighted as a significant issue.

Dr Noel Richardson, Institute of Technology Carlow and co-author of the report stated: “The hope or expectation for finding a magic formula that will be the panacea for addressing the higher suicide rates among middle-aged men is not realistic – nor could it be in the context of the complexity and interplay of causes and risk factors. The report’s recommendations provide a roadmap to address the issues and challenges that have been raised; it behoves all stakeholders to mobilise the will and commitment to translate these into tangible outcomes.’

The report proposes more effective and gender specific programmes, services, and resources that support the mental health and wellbeing of middle-aged men. It sets out recommendations that cover six key areas: advocacy, connection, communication, education and training, stigma reduction and awareness, and support. The HSE’s National Office for Suicide Prevention will now work with and fund the Men’s Health Forum in Ireland to implement some of the strategic recommendations.