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In reply to the discussion: Baby boomers are killing themselves at an alarming rate, raising question: Why? [View all]OneGrassRoot
(22,920 posts)but your comment drew me in immediately.
I'm glad you are finding 50 easiest.
However, I'm surprised that people are surprised that those in middle age -- especially those in their 50's -- are committing suicide more and more.
I've shared here before about many conversations I've had with people who have AMAZING resumes. They are brilliant, not only in the traditional workforce but running their own companies previously, starting nonprofits, etc.
Now, after years of unemployment or underemployment, inability to get funding for their ventures (most investments in entrepreneurial ventures are going to people under 35), no safety net, social security still too far away, many of us realize the cold, hard truth that we are literally worth more dead than alive.
Sadly, of course, if people are obviously killing themselves, that negates life insurance.
I'd venture to say there are many, many more "accidents" occurring in this age group that weren't accidental.
It's an epidemic. It's awful. It's inhumane that so many who have worked so hard for their entire lives, and are willing to continue to work hard, feel we can't sustain our existence. We don't want to be a burden on anyone.