Suicide rates rise sharply among middle-aged Americans

More people now die of suicide than in car accidents.

The rate of suicide among middle-aged Americans have risen sharply in the past decade, prompting concern that 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.

 

 

Continue reading… “Suicide rates rise sharply among middle-aged Americans”

Doctors Ask Patients to Sign ‘Pain Contracts’ to Get Painkillers

pain contracts

Many highly effective, these drugs are dangerous and addictive.

Chronic pain — the kind that lasts for months or recurs regularly – afflicts more than a quarter of adult Americans. Treating pain can be extremely challenging, however, in part because it can’t be measured with instruments. It’s in the eye — or neck or joint — of the beholder.

Continue reading… “Doctors Ask Patients to Sign ‘Pain Contracts’ to Get Painkillers”