May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and it is a great time to discuss the importance of mental health for people of all ages and at all stages of life. The emotional and psychological well-being of ourselves and others is something we shouldn’t be afraid to talk about; alas, it can be a touchy subject for some. Mental health has been known to be a taboo subject for many years and to many generations. Many seniors may still feel this way with the stigmatization of therapy and discussions of one’s mental health. But, with the advancements in science and studies, we know the importance and significance of mental health awareness and how it can help so many people who may have previously struggled silently. Mental health is a foundation for our overall well-being and can impact our lives in numerous ways. Many people can often neglect their mental health due to the busyness of life, which is why we’ll be discussing the importance of mental health awareness and the bravery in opening up and being vulnerable when you’re struggling. Mental health is not something that should be disregarded because, often, if we neglect our mental health, we see the effects of it in other aspects of our health. Prioritizing your mental health is never selfish, it’s an act of self-care and self-love. 

At Senior Industry Services, we are aware of the importance of talking about mental health at every stage of life. This week, we’re highlighting the particular needs of aging adults and what can be done to make their lives healthy and fulfilling.

Why Mental Health Matters in Seniors

Mental health is just as important as physical health, and they each affect the other; if struggling with one, you often struggle with the other as well. Signs of mental health issues in seniors can be widely misinterpreted as just an element of getting older, however, there is no correlation between aging and mental health issues. Cognitive decline, anxiety, and depression are not inevitable conditions of getting older. Seniors can lead mentally healthy and fulfilling lives with adequate support and compassion.

The 5 C’s To Help Support Mental Health:

• Connection: Crucial for mental health through meaningful relationships.
• Compassion: Both self-compassion and compassion for others. 
• Coping: Developing healthy coping mechanisms for stress and difficult emotions.
• Community: Engaging in social activities for a sense of belonging and support.
• Care: Prioritizes self-care and seeking help when needed for maintaining good mental health.

Unfortunately, 1 in every 5 adults age 55 or older has a mental health disorder, according to the CDC. But fewer than 40% are treated. This discrepancy lies in both underdiagnosis as well as lack of proper mental health care in this population.

Common Risk Factors for Mental Health Disorders among Seniors

There are many reasons why elderly individuals are prone to mental problems. Identification of the risk factors will allow family members, caregivers, and professionals to provide early and proper help. Older adults are more likely to experience adverse events such as bereavement, a drop in income, or a reduced sense of purpose after retirement. Below are some more of the risk factors for exacerbated mental health problems:

1. Social Isolation and Loneliness

Old age is typically defined by loss of long-term friends and spouses, retirement from work, or physical disability that prevents social interaction. Chronic loneliness can lead to depression and dementia.

2. Chronic Health Conditions

Diseases like heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, and chronic pain have a connection with a greater likelihood of depression and anxiety. Handling physical sickness in the absence of emotional support can influence mental health considerably.

3. Cognitive Decline

Dementia and mild cognitive impairment are illnesses of the mind in themselves. However, even slight symptoms of memory loss are enough to provoke anxiety and depression among older adults.

4. Grief and Loss

Bereavement after a spouse, child, or close friend’s death can trigger intense sorrow or cause complicated grief that disrupts mental functioning.

5. Lack of Access to Mental Health Services

Many older persons have barriers to access in the form of transportation challenges, financial inability, or stigma, which discourage them from using mental health services.

6. Alcohol or Drug Abuse

Abuse of alcohol and prescription medications is increasing among older adults, often used as a way to cope with pain or emotional distress.  Excessive use of drugs and alcohol can worsen existing conditions, trigger new ones, disrupt brain chemistry, lead to self-medication cycles, and impair judgment.

7. Lack of Physical Activity

As we age, we typically lose mobility and may not be as physically active. Exercise and staying physically active are helpful for both our physical and mental health and can help alleviate mental health issues and symptoms associated with them, as well as improve mood, self-esteem, and cognitive function.

Promoting Mental Health in Older Adults

Early detection and intervention are key. Here’s how families and professionals can help:

• Facilitate regular social contact, either through community centers, houses of worship, or hobbies.
• Promote exercise and healthy eating, which have been demonstrated to improve mood and cognitive functioning.
• Recommend frequent medical and mental health check-ups if signs like persistent sadness or withdrawal are evident.
• Create an open discussion about emotions and mental health. Reducing the stigma surrounding talking about mental health can help seniors feel more comfortable in seeking help.
• Educate yourself, advocate for mental health awareness, and provide resources tailored to the experiences and needs of older adults.

Mental Health Awareness Month offers the opportunity to elevate and protect the mental well-being of our community of older adults. Education around risk factors, along with love and loving care, will enhance the life of an older adult.

Whether you or your loved one is experiencing difficulty with mental health, wait no longer—call. There is help available, and healing occurs at any age.

At Senior Industry Services, we’re committed to providing resources, support, and solutions that empower seniors and caregivers. This mental health awareness month, and every day, let’s aim to be advocates for bravery and honesty about our feelings.

“Vulnerability sounds like truth and feels like courage. Truth and courage aren’t always comfortable, but they’re never weakness.” 

― Brené Brown

Written for Senior Industry Services by Lauren Hope Bartling