Aging, Mental Health, Suicide Risk & Prevention with Dr. Peter Franz

This episode of Longevity by Design discusses mental health and suicide risk and prevention. The following topics are discussed: depression, suicide, substance abuse, social isolation, among others also. This episode is intended to raise awareness of mental health issues and suicide risk and prevention. The topics discussed may be distressing or triggering for some individuals. Please proceed with caution if you continue to listen to this episode.

Our mental health is vital for healthspan and lifespan, yet mental health and suicide remain difficult topics for many. In this enlightening episode of Longevity by Design, host Dr. Gil Blander welcomes Dr. Peter Franz to explore the profound connection between aging, mental health, and suicide. Dr. Franz, an expert in mental health and suicide risk and prevention, shares insights on the prevalence of mental health issues and their impact on our lifespan and healthspan. Through an engaging discussion, they shed light on the critical need for understanding and addressing mental health to live longer, healthier lives.

The conversation dives into the statistics on mental health and suicide, highlighting how these issues are more common and impactful than many may realize. Dr. Franz emphasizes the importance of raising awareness on these issues, accessible resources and interventions, and the role of social support in combating isolation—a significant factor in mental health deterioration and increased suicide risk. He also discusses other major risk factors for mental health and suicide risk, including the effect of age. The discussion also addresses barriers to seeking mental health care and the stigmatization surrounding these topics.

Dr. Franz offers practical advice on mental health and suicide prevention, stressing the importance of social support and seeking professional help when needed. He advocates for a holistic approach to health, including social connections and engagement, and the significance of the inextricable link between our mental health and physical health. This episode not only educates on the links between aging, mental health, and suicide risk and prevention but also encourages listeners to take proactive steps toward mental wellness, underscoring the message that taking care of one's mental health is essential for living a long, healthy, and fulfilling life.

Chapters

• 0:00 Introduction
• 2:14 Why did Dr. Peter Franz get interested in mental health and suicide risk and prevention?
• 3:52 What is the prevalence of mental health issues in the US and globally?
• 5:13 What is the prevalence of suicide?
• 7:02 What is the effect of mental health and suicide on healthspan and lifespan?
• 8:33 What was the effect of COVID-19 on mental health and suicide risk?
• 11:12 Are there particular demographic groups that are at higher risk for mental health issues and suicide?
• 12:23 How does access to firearms influence suicide risk?
• 13:36 Does the location of where you live influence mental health and suicide risk?
• 14:46 Are there differences among age groups for mental health issues and suicide risk?
• 15:26 Does marital status or social connections impact mental health and suicide risk?
• 16:12 What are the major risk factors that increase the risk of suicide?
• 17:21 What should you do if you think someone is at risk for suicide?
• 22:03 The importance of social connections mental health
• 23:52 The link between mental health and physical activity
• 24:35 What can you do to help your own and others mental health?
• 25:57 The effect of traumatic life events on mental health
• 27:09 Do genetics influence mental health?
• 28:23 What to know about seeing a mental health care professional
• 32:47 Generational differences and societal changes in discussing mental health
• 36:18 The number one predictor and treatment for suicide risk
• 37:21 Dr. Peter Franz’s top tip for improving health