Is Life Getting Harder for Middle-Aged People?

Are Americans in the middle of their lives being stretched to the breaking point?

The first decade of this century witnessed a dramatic rise in suicides among middle-aged people, The New York Times reports.

The increase, about 30 percent among 35- to 64-year olds, has raised the question of whether "a generation of baby boomers who have faced years of economic worry and easy access to prescription painkillers may be particularly vulnerable to self-inflicted harm," according to the Times.

The paper cites a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention official who says the financial and family situations of baby boomers might be creating unique stresses, such as taking care both of their aging parents and their young adult children.

The article says if anything, suicides are undercounted. A recent audit of Georgia coroners has found that suicides in the state are not always reported.

If you or someone you know needs help, here is a list of suicide prevention hotlines in Georgia.

What do you think has led to an increase in suicides among middle-aged Americans? What can be done about it? Share your thoughts in the comments.