According to the National Institute of Mental Health, almost a quarter of adults in the United States suffer from mental illness. Tens of millions of people deal with issues such as anxiety disorders, depression, and panic disorder, but many hide their conditions or symptoms. Why?
The answer: There is still a prominent stigma around mental health. For seniors in Blue Ridge, GA, it may be even more difficult to acknowledge a problem and reach out for help
Why is there a stigma around mental health? In this article, we'll explore the reasoning behind stigma and aging, and how seniors can receive the help they need to improve their mental health.
There are several explanations for the stigma around mental health, and they are extremely complex. Here are some explanations:
Many people simply do not understand, or attempt to understand, mental illness. This can lead to a fear of asking about the details of mental illness, in case there is a perception that they are suffering from the illness.
Mental health was historically very stigmatized until recently. Historically, people with mental illnesses were put into asylums or largely ignored. For women in particular, mental illness was often claimed to be hysteria, and lack of care led to worsening symptoms.
Older folks, in particular, may still hold past prejudices against mental illnesses. Rather than viewing mental illnesses as conditions that can be managed and treated, they may see them as detrimental personality features that should be hidden away.
Despite the advent of technology such as the internet, people are still misinformed about mental illness in the digital age. Common misconceptions surrounding mental illness include:
Self-stigma around mental illness can be almost as debilitating as the problem itself. You may think that you don't deserve care because you do not exhibit classic symptoms of the condition.
A common self-stigma is believing you don't have the right conditions to suffer from mental illness. However, it's important to remember that mental illness does not discriminate. Even those who have every privilege can still suffer from anxiety, depression, or other mental disorders.
Mental illness is also associated with shame. You may feel embarrassed to bring up your symptoms or feelings around others, which can prevent you from getting help. For seniors, pride can often get in the way of asking for help.
Discrimination against mentally ill people is all too real. Even if some groups are legally protected, social discrimination can be just as damaging. Lack of funding and resources for mentally ill people creates barriers to treatment and encourages existing stigmas.
Mental wellness in older adults involves identifying stigmas surrounding mental illness and working to combat them in your everyday life. Here are some steps you can take today to work on your mental health:
A therapist can be an invaluable resource for identifying mental illness and treating it through therapeutic techniques. Your therapist will use the first few appointments to get to know you, and then they can help you develop coping mechanisms to address triggers.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most common practice in therapy. CBT involves replacing negative thought patterns with positive ones through talk therapy and reinforcing positive coping techniques.
If you are dealing with specific issues, such as grief or post-traumatic stress disorder, you may need a therapist who specializes in those areas. For veterans, professionals at the Department of Veterans Affairs are often equipped with a specialized skillset for mental health issues resulting from military service.
One of the easiest ways to break the stigma around mental health is to talk about it. Be as open as you feel comfortable with when explaining to your friends and family.
For example, if you experience anxiety and do not wish to go somewhere, discuss it if you feel comfortable. Say, "I don't feel like doing that right now, because I have anxiety," rather than a generic response such as, "I'm not feeling well."
Teaching others about your mental illness can also help them apply these behaviors to others in their lives.
Regular exercise can be just as good for your mental health as it is for your physical health. Exercise produces more endorphins in the brain, colloquially known as the "runner's high."
Additionally, when you feel like you are physically stronger and more fit, your body can do more, which may positively impact your mental health.
Getting outside for activities such as walking and hiking can produce tangible benefits to your mental health as well. The sun provides vitamin D, and experiencing the fresh air outdoors can boost your mood.
Mental health awareness for seniors is vital, no matter where you live. Finding a community dedicated to your mental health is essential. If you're still wondering why is there a stigma around mental health, the answer is clear.
At Blue Ridge Assisted Living & Memory Care, we prioritize the health and well-being of our residents. With amenities such as chef-prepared dining, exclusive activities and events, senior care education, and housekeeping, our residents can focus on enjoying a fulfilling senior lifestyle.
Do you want to learn more about all our community has to offer? Reach out to us today or visit us in person at our beautiful location in Blue Ridge, GA, to see it in person. We can't wait to meet you!