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Wednesday, April 25, 2012

Job loss puts Appalachian men more at risk for suicide, and their culture inhibits help-seeking

The suicide risk among middle-aged men in Appalachia has increased recently because of the downturn in the economy, according to the dean of the Zanesville and Eastern campuses of Ohio University, reports Jennifer Manfrin of The Zanesville Times Recorder.

Dean Richard Greenlee, who has provided training to Appalachian mental health agencies, said several factors contribute to the high suicide rates: "Independence, self-reliance, a strong work ethic and pride in accomplishments are common characteristics of men in the Appalachian culture." Suicide rates are high in rural areas where there is little access to mental health facilities and where the people tend to believe in being independent and not asking for help.

Many Applachian men have recently lost jobs they've had for 20 or more years, Greenlee said, which often leads to legal, financial and relationship issues, causing individuals to turn to alcohol or drugs to cope. He said tragedies occur when individuals facing these losses do not seek help: "One of the things that Appalachian men have problems with is breaking through their toughness and emotional strength. What they often do not realize is that the problems they are facing after job losses are too much for anyone to handle without seeking help." (Read more)

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