This population often holds self esteem, and feelings of worth in direct correlation to their productiveness. Forgetting that there are suitable avenues, such as volunteerism and mentoring, to pursue, their reason for living dims and suicide becomes a way out. When a spouse dies, or health problems become more prevalent, what was once just a thought to be toyed with soon becomes a very possible outlet for pain, both emotional and physical. In the earliest stages of dementia, such as Alzheimer's, the patient is fully aware. Elderly males are more likely to kill themselves in these circumstances, and their means are also more likely to succeed.
Guns are typically the choice of means.
A third population at high risk for suicide are the Bipolar II, or manic-depressive. After days or weeks on a cocaine-like high, there may be bills to pay, wrongs to right and a terribly black and hopeless depression that replaces the euphoria commonly experienced during the high phase. Drugs, and particularly alcohol may be used to numb the emotional pain. In the depths of depression, further exacerbated by the poor judgement, and lack of inhibitation provided by alcohol, this population is ripe for feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness. Through understanding risk factors and risk groups, it becomes easier to take that important next step, talking about suicide.