Scheme can aid in suicide fight

I WOULD like to comment on the important front page article (January 28) that highlighted the increase in suicides among elderly people based on observations from coroners in Offaly and Kerry.

The increased risk of suicide among older people associated with increased social isolation as one of the consequences of the economic recession is consistent with findings of an innovative Suicide Support and Information System (SSIS) that is being piloted by the National Suicide Research Foundation (NSRF) in collaboration with coroners, healthcare professionals and bereaved family members in Co Cork since September 2008. However, it is important to note that the recent increase in suicides is observed in both young and older people, and mostly in men. Key objectives of the SSIS are:

1. To improve provision of support to the bereaved.