Almost 29% of seniors say they hesitate before seeking help for their mental health, underscoring some of the barriers facing older people, including stigmas around conditions like depression.
In communities like Richardson, Texas, a close-knit support network can be crucial in helping seniors protect their mental health. But that only happens if everyone plays their part in breaking down the stigma around mental health conditions. Here are some tips.
Older adults grew up in a time that's somewhat different from today. While younger millennials and Gen Z feel comfortable and open talking about their mental health struggles, this is a relatively new phenomenon.
During the 20th century, it was more common to stay silent on mental health struggles or to brush them off with phrases like "pull yourself together". That belief is still prevalent in some parts of the boomer generation, and one of the reasons they find it harder to talk about mental health.
It's essential to understand this generational divide, especially if you are a younger loved one who is concerned about the mental well-being of a parent or grandparent.
When seniors sense a stigma around mental health, they may instinctively want to keep feelings and thoughts to themselves. This is also true of any loved ones you might have concerns about, but worry about expressing them.
Silence is one of the biggest risks you can take with mental health, because talking is often the first step to getting the right support. Keeping worries and emotions hidden from others can often lead to isolation or spiraling emotions, such as deepening depression or more persistent anxiety.
If you suspect a loved one is struggling with their mental health, they may not be ready to talk. But you can still take simple steps to make it easier for them to have the conversation, such as encouraging them to connect with others and participate in social activities.
When there is a stigma around mental health, it's easy to overlook some of the symptoms that aren't immediately noticeable in a senior. Here are some of the less well-known symptoms to watch for in older people:
Depression doesn't always manifest as persistent sadness, though that is a symptom. Depression can also cause a change in appetite, fatigue, loss of interest in daily activities, and even bouts of anger and frustration.
Anxiety causes persistent worry and obsessive thoughts, but there are other symptoms of anxiety to watch for, too.
Anxious seniors may resist social activities or avoid routines that cause them worry, such as health consultations. They may also seem restless and have trouble sleeping.
Memory loss and other cognitive challenges may cause a senior to act forgetful or confused. However, there are other, less common symptoms, and it's essential to watch for them.
Some seniors may seem frustrated or start withdrawing from social activities. They may appear confused or withdrawn when part of a group conversation, too.
Social isolation can be a symptom of other mental health challenges like depression and anxiety. But it can also be a standalone issue, and one that causes worry, since isolation is linked to more health problems in older age.
Some life events make seniors more vulnerable to loneliness, such as losing their partner. It's essential to be aware of these risks and provide your loved one with extra support, encouraging them to engage in social activities within their community.
You can normalize positive mental health and reduce stigma through activities that are designed to support seniors.These can be a range of activities that serve several purposes, such as keeping seniors mentally and physically well, and offering a chance to socialize with peers.
Here are some ideas:
It's important to choose activities that you enjoy. If you participate in workshops or group events that align with your needs and interests, you're more likely to commit to them in the long term, which is crucial for maintaining your mental health.
It can be a worry to have a loved one experience mental health problems, especially if they stigmatize it and are reluctant to seek help. Here are some practical tips on how you can support a parent or other close relative if you suspect a mental health problem:
It's crucial that older adults feel respected, so avoid taking charge of the situation or trying to fix it overnight.Be there for support, and show understanding of their feelings.
Don't see mental health as something that can be broken and then fixed. Emotional wellness is about taking small daily steps to protect your mental health.Here are some healthy habits you or a loved one can try:
Embracing this style of holistic wellness takes away the stigma of mental health. Instead, you can focus on small goals, like feeling daily gratitude or having the energy to get through your day.
Looking after your mind in your later years is as important as looking after your body, which is why it's crucial we all do our part to break down the stigma around mental health. Use these tips to help you or a loved one protect their mental well-being.
At The El Dorado Senior Living, we've built a community where residents' well-being comes first. With fun social activities and exclusive health and wellness programs on-site, you or your loved one will have everything they need to stay in the best health and enjoy retirement. Find out more by arranging a tour.