Mental Health Awareness Month at Arrow Senior Living

Mental Health Awareness Month was originally celebrated in 1949. That was 73 years ago! The goals of the sponsoring organization, originally the National Committee for Mental Hygiene (now Mental Health America), were to improve attitudes toward mental health/illness, improve services for mental health clients, and promote mental health.

Older adults are at an increased risk for depression. As we age and notice changes in our physical health, we may also notice changes in our mental health. It’s important to pay attention to any significant changes in our sense of well-being, such as loss of motivation or a lack of interest in doing things we used to love.

Depression can be more prevalent in individuals who have medical problems. Research shows as we age, 80 percent of older adults may have at least one chronic health condition. Having shared those statistics, it’s crucial to understand depression is not a normal part of aging.

Potential signs of mental health distress in seniors may include: a persistent sad or empty feeling; feeling hopeless or pessimistic; feeling guilty, worthless, or helpless; chronic fatigue or lack of energy; problems with sleep; changes in appetite; thoughts of death or suicide, restlessness, or irritability, decline in doing things you used to enjoy, isolating more than is typical, and feeling no one understands.

Our health is a complete state of physical, mental, and social well-being, not just the absence of disease or sickness. Because our mind and bodies share the same vessel, it is important to treat mental health and physical health as equally important to our overall wellness.

At Arrow Senior Living, St. Charles, MO we understand depression is a treatable condition like diabetes or hypertension. Don’t settle for being depressed at any age! It is not a normal part of getting older. A primary care physician or mental health specialist can address chronic feelings of sadness.