Background
This study tested a hypothesised model of the effects of adverse life events on the mental health of middle-aged and older adults living alone, as mediated by thought suppression and help-seeking behaviours, considering gender differences.
Methods
A questionnaire survey was conducted on a sample of 1202 (622 men; 580 women) individuals from 247445 residents aged 50–79 in District A of Tokyo. The questionnaire items covered parameters on adverse life events, help-seeking behaviour, thought suppression, and mental health status.
Results
Multiple group structural equation-modelling analysis revealed that the seriousness of adverse life events, help-seeking behaviours, and mental health scores were higher in women than in men. No significant gender differences were observed in thought suppression. The findings support all three proposed hypotheses: severe adverse life events will: (a) give rise to help-seeking behaviours, which will have a positive effect on mental health; (b) intensify thought suppression, which will harm mental health; and (c) inhibit help-seeking behaviour, especially in single middle-aged and older adult men.
Conclusion
There is a need to develop interventional programs based on the theory of replacement thinking to encourage help-seeking behaviours in middle-aged and older adults.