Mental health covers our emotional, psychological and social well-being. It shapes how we think, feel and act as we cope with life, and how we handle stress, relate to others and make choices. It matters at every stage of life, including as we age.
Aging and mental health
Many older adults are at risk of mental health problems, but that does not make them a normal part of aging. Studies show that most older adults are satisfied with their lives, even if they have more illnesses or physical problems.
Big life changes, though, can leave you uneasy, stressed and sad — the death of a loved one, retirement, or coping with a serious illness. Many people adjust in time; some find it harder, which puts them at risk of disorders such as depression and anxiety.
Why treatment matters
Mental disorders in older adults cause suffering, and they can also make other health problems — especially chronic ones — harder to manage. That is why recognising and treating them is important.
Warning signs
- changes in mood or energy;
- changes in eating or sleeping habits;
- withdrawing from people and activities you enjoy;
- feeling unusually confused, forgetful, angry, upset, worried or scared;
- feeling numb, or that nothing matters;
- unexplained aches and pains;
- sadness or hopelessness;
- smoking, drinking or using drugs more than usual;
- anger, irritability or aggression;
- thoughts and memories you can't get out of your head;
- hearing voices or believing things that are not true;
- thoughts of harming yourself or others.
Getting help
If you think you may have a mental health problem, get help. Talk therapy, medicines, or both can treat mental disorders. If you don't know where to begin, contact your primary care provider.
Sources
- MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine, "Older Adult Mental Health." https://medlineplus.gov/olderadultmentalhealth.html
- Rewritten in hubnx's own words.
Licence: CC0 1.0 (public domain) · Adapted from medlineplus.gov
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