Elderly suicide, mental health professionals, and the clergy: a need for clinical collaboration, training, and research

This article addresses the need for improved clergy-mental health professional collaboration in the assessment and treatment of elderly suicide. Millions of older adults with personal problems seek the counsel of clergy. A recent Gallup survey found that elders are more willing to turn to their clergy than their medical doctor or a mental health specialist for help when a friend is contemplating suicide (Gallup Organization, 1992). Elder suicide prevention presents the mental health and religious communities with unique opportunities to work together in the best interests of those they serve.