The author presents a study of suicide among those 45 to 64 years of age. Although there has been a decline in suicide rates for the middle-aged, he asserts it is still a high-risk group. Suicide rates generally increase with age, although this applies to men more than women. Women’s suicide rates are highest during middle-age, but men commit suicide more often than women at all ages. The author explores many possible reasons for the link between age and increased suicide. (60 refs.) (VM)