Mental well-being is important at all ages. This is especially true during major lifestyle shifts, such as those that can happen during retirement.
One of the most important things to know about mental health is that the more open you are about your struggles with your providers, friends and family, the more they can help you overcome these obstacles. If you feel you are dealing with psychological health issues, let the caring staff at Cambridge Court assisted living community know what you're going through. Or, if you're not yet a resident of the vibrant community, reach out to someone you trust or your own doctor.
Understanding common facts about mental health among seniors can show you that you are less alone than it may seem and help you recognize the causes and symptoms of mental health issues.
As you age, there are unique stressors that may not have been prevalent earlier in life that can cause your mental health to suffer. Older adults sometimes have to contend with chronic health issues, reduced mobility or even changes in socioeconomic status after retirement. You may find that close family and friends are experiencing health crises, which may in turn cause worry about your own circumstances.
Stress plays a significant role in mental well-being. Left unaddressed, stress can contribute to physical and mental decline. So, finding ways to mitigate stress is important. While there are sometimes factors beyond your control, you can pursue activities that bring you joy.
Try new hobbies, spend time with family and friends and do the things that make you happy. Praying and worshiping God can help relieve stress in your life by letting Him help you carry the burden. The less stress you have in your life, the more likely it is that you can cultivate a sense of mental wellness.
Some people may think that losing the childhood spark of joy is an inevitable part of growing old. This could not be further from the truth. There are many people living happy, vibrant and vivacious lives well into their senior years.
Depression, marked by persistent periods of sadness and a loss of interest in the things that once brought you pleasure, is not a normal part of the aging process. Making such an association causes many older individuals to miss out on the myriad of treatment options available to them.
If you are struggling with depression, it is important to say something before symptoms worsen. Clinical depression often requires professional intervention, as worsening symptoms can be overwhelming and impact your life in many ways.
The brain is a powerful thing and this is manifested in the fact that mental illness can contribute to physical illness. It's important to realize this correlation so that you can safeguard your mental well-being as much as you do your physical health.
This is also one of the reasons why being active and engaging in group fitness, leisurely walks and pursuing new hobbies is imperative for older people. It not only helps you to stay physically healthy, but these activities are also good for reinforcing mental wellness. Seniors who exercise routinely and engage in hobbies they enjoy have been shown to have less anxiety and depression than those that do not.
When it comes to mental health, issues may sometimes be caused by medications taken for other ailments. When being prescribed a new medicine, ask about the mental side effects. Pay close attention to any changes and determine how the medicine makes you feel.
Remember, you are your own best advocate. If a new medication is contributing to a clinical-level of depression, it is absolutely acceptable to ask about alternatives or work with your provider to come up with a plan of action.
Older adults are generally less likely to get the help they need for depression. One of the reasons for this is that many try to handle it on their own without bothering anyone else to assist in this effort. Less than half get help from a medical professional.
Yet, handling it without intervention can often make mental health issues that much worse. It is always best to seek help, because a provider can suggest medications that could help and provide tips on coping mechanisms and lifestyle shifts that can help as well.
There is still such a significant stigma surrounding mental health that it is challenging to compel people to get the help they need. Yet, given the sheer amount of options available to those dealing with mental illness, no one should have to deal with these obstacles on their own.
If you are struggling with your mental well-being, talk to a trusted family member or friend or alert your healthcare provider. Intervention can make a huge difference in your mental well-being and ultimately in your quality of life.
