According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 23.1% of the US adult population lives with a mental illness. While the severity can range from mild to severe, there's no doubt that living with mental health issues can be challenging.
We don't talk enough about mental health, though, and this is especially true for older adults. This is because there's a prevailing mental health stigma, which prevents people from discussing such an important topic.
Do you have a loved one who's a senior in Victoria, TX, and they seem to be struggling? Then keep reading. We'll show you how to break down the stigma and get them the help they need.
As we've said in the introduction, mental health stigma affects the whole population. However, it's especially prevalent in older adults. Why?
First of all, there's ageism. There are negative beliefs about aging, and they often overlap with mental illness stereotypes. This makes seniors feel like they're weak or past help if they need mental health assistance, even if they live independently.
Some cultures also view mental illness as a moral failure or spiritual weakness. This adds more layers of shame.
In addition, generational norms were much different in earlier years. Many seniors grew up when mental health wasn't discussed, so they continue avoiding the topic today.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), seniors are at risk for several mental health issues. They include:
They're more at risk because of a few factors. Not only can seniors go through physical decline and caregiving burdens, but they also experience elder abuse and a lack of accessible care. Plus, they may go through bereavement, social isolation, and financial insecurity.
When you don't address stigmas, the problems remain unsolved. When you want to have good emotional wellness in aging, then issues need to be addressed and resolved (if possible).
Untreated mental health issues can reduce an older adult's quality of life. This may worsen their physical illnesses.
Some seniors may not even know they have a treatment issue. Perhaps they don't recognize the symptoms, and they assume that they're going through normal aging. Some may fear judgment, too.
Now that you understand mental health stigma, you probably want to provide senior support in Victoria East, TX. So how can you help stop stigma in aging?
Mental health education for seniors is one of the best things you can do for the demographic. You should host workshops or webinars that:
If it's within your power, then you should train caregivers, medical staff, and family members on recognizing key symptoms of mental health problems. It's important to reframe depression and anxiety as treatable conditions.
Otherwise, start small. Help your specific loved one understand mental health and the available treatment options for them.
It's common for seniors to be afraid to open up, especially since they've grown up in environments where no one discussed mental health. Since it's scary, they probably won't be the first ones to speak about their issues.
You can make things more comfortable by creating safe, non-judgmental spaces where they can discuss feelings or struggles openly. Have an open ear and never dismiss their thoughts.
To humanize the experience, consider using storytelling and testimonial initiatives. You'd be surprised at how powerful they are at challenging harmful assumptions.
Older adults won't look for things they don't know exist, so you need to bring the appropriate care to them. For example, push for the integration of mental health screenings at places where seniors already go, such as:
Even services in a senior living community would be great, as independent living and mental health are still hot topics.
Also, remember that older adults often think that going to therapy, using medication, and attending support groups are signs of weakness. Emphasize that these things are powerful aids.
A lot of seniors are isolated and lonely, and this can lead to mental health issues. To prevent this from happening, you should help them build social connections.
Organize group activities, like:
If you're having outdoor events, then make sure the attendees follow our summer safety tips.
Another useful thing is to work with volunteer programs. They can pair trained senior peer counselors with isolated seniors so they get emotional support.
There are so many wrong assumptions about older adults, so do your best to dispel these myths. Try promoting positive messaging around aging; for instance, you can highlight that they're wise, resilient, and excellent community contributors.
In addition, you can advocate for anti-ageism policies and culturally inclusive services that respect gerodiversity.
It can be difficult for you to get things off the ground on your own. So work smarter, not harder.
Align your events with broader campaigns, like:
You can even create a local Senior Mental Health Week!
Whatever you choose, share messages and resource info through local media, social media, and posters in strategic areas.
Mental health stigma can be tough for anyone to battle, but it's especially challenging for seniors. They already face ageism, and they don't feel as comfortable bringing up their struggles because of the way they grew up.
Thankfully, there are numerous ways to combat this stigma. So do your part and help not only your loved one, but also other older adults who need help finding their voices.
At Morada Victoria East, we offer our residents private patios and garage parking, too. Contact us today to find out more about senior living in Victoria, TX.