Mental Health anxiety and how to cope
I work with
seniors on a volunteer basis in the area of Health and Wellness. Over the past
seven years I have given many workshops on topics of interest to seniors in
this area, but what I find interesting is that there is a reluctance to talk
about and deal with mental health issues, especially among my sex (male).Mental
health issues vary, and individuals with Anxiety will likely experience
different symptoms than those with Depression. The following are some of the
warning signs of mental health issues in seniors.
· Noticeable changes in mood, energy
level, or appetite;
· Feeling flat or having trouble
feeling positive emotions;
· Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much;
· Difficulty concentrating, feeling
restless, or on edge;
· Increased worry or feeling stressed;
· Sadness or hopelessness;
· Suicidal thoughts;
· Engaging in high-risk activities;
· Obsessive thinking or compulsive
behavior;
· Thoughts or behaviors that interfere
with work, family, or social life.
If you’re a senior experiencing
mental health issues or noticing these warning signs, it’s important to seek
help and support. Here are some of the best ways to get assistance:
Start by scheduling an appointment
with your primary care physician or geriatric specialist. They can assess your
symptoms, provide a diagnosis, and recommend appropriate treatment options.
Consider seeking help from a mental
health professional who specializes in working with seniors. This could be a
psychologist, psychiatrist, or licensed clinical social worker. They can
provide Therapy, counseling, or medication management tailored to your specific
needs.
Joining a support group can be
immensely beneficial as it allows you to connect with others who are going
through similar experiences. Look for local support groups focused on mental
health issues in seniors, or consider online communities if in-person options
are limited.
Reach out to your loved ones and
confide in them about what you’re going through. They can offer emotional
support and be there to listen and understand your struggles. Sometimes, simply
talking about your concerns can bring relief.
If you’re in immediate distress or
experiencing a mental health crisis, don’t hesitate to contact helplines or
crisis services. Organizations like the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
(in the US), Samaritans (in the UK), or local crisis hotlines can provide you
with immediate support and guidance.
Investigate local community resources
specifically tailored to seniors’ mental health. Senior centers, community
centers, or nonprofit organizations often offer programs and services aimed at
promoting mental well-being in older adults. These may include counseling,
therapy, educational workshops, or recreational activities.
In recent years, telehealth services
have become more accessible and convenient. Many mental health professionals
now offer remote appointments via video calls, allowing you to receive care
from the comfort of your own home. This can be particularly helpful if mobility
or transportation is a challenge.
Engage in activities that promote
self-care and overall well-being. This can include regular Exercise,
maintaining a healthy Diet, practicing relaxation techniques such as Meditation
or deep breathing exercises, getting enough Sleep, and participating in hobbies
or activities that bring you joy.
Remember, seeking help is a sign of
strength, and you deserve support and assistance in managing your mental
health. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the appropriate resources and
professionals to get the help you need.
Originally Published on https://boomersnotsenior.blogspot.com/
