The world's population is moving fast, according to the World Health Organization. By 2050, the number of people aged 60 and over will double, reaching 2.1 million.
About 14% of seniors in this age group are currently living with a mental disorder. However, mental health conditions in seniors are often undertreated and underrecognized due to stigma surrounding them.
What is mental health stigma, and what can you do to prioritize your mental health while living in Dallas? Read on to find out.
Nearly 15% of American adults aged 50 and over have a mental health disorder. The number of seniors with these conditions could double by 2030. Despite the commonality of mental illness, two-thirds of seniors don't receive the treatment they need.
Negative stereotypes regarding aging are part of the reason mental illnesses remain underdiagnosed and undertreated. To some, it's considered "normal" for seniors to become unhappy and lonely as they age. This belief surrounding mental health in senior living created stigma.
Stigma is a bias or prejudice that forms when people don't understand someone else's:
Stigma can form out of ignorance or fear. When we see something we don't fully understand, we may blame or shame the people involved.
There are four main forms of mental health stigma:
Structural stigma forms when work or government policies discriminate against people with mental illnesses. For example, you may be denied job opportunities or a promotion.
Public stigmas are shared beliefs. For example, a group may have negative opinions about people with mental illnesses.
Believing these opinions may cause you to direct the same thoughts at yourself. Self-stigma occurs when you feel ashamed about your mental illness.
Cultural stigma is a combination of self- and public stigma. All four types can cause:
We don't always see or recognize when someone is struggling with a mental health condition. Many people experience different symptoms, which are often hidden. This can cause ignorance or misunderstandings regarding mental health conditions.
Remember, stigma is born from fear and misunderstanding. A lack of mental health education can cause people to form a stigma about mental health in senior living.
The media perpetuates damaging stereotypes about mental health. In a movie, someone with schizophrenia may come off as dysfunctional or violent. These portrayals can cause stigma.
Seniors have a higher risk for mental health issues due to:
Mental health stigma can cause discrimination and isolation. Feeling isolated and lonely can worsen a mental health condition, creating an endless cycle.
Mental health stigma can affect seniors:
Someone with a mental health illness may struggle to find work or career advancement opportunities. They may receive unfair health insurance coverage.
Seniors may feel worthless or ashamed due to their illness. This may cause them to self-isolate. Others may struggle to maintain relationships, causing feelings of loneliness.
Psychologically, stigma can hurt a senior's self-esteem. They may feel uncomfortable asking for help, which can cause existing symptoms to worsen.
Challenging mental health stigma can improve emotional wellness in aging seniors. Here are a few ways you can improve your mental health in senior living.
Remember, ignorance and misunderstandings can contribute to stigma. Educate yourself about your mental health condition. Share what you learn with others.
Some people may not know how to recognize that they're struggling with a mental health condition. Common symptoms include:
If you see someone struggling with these symptoms, reach out. Let them know they're not alone.
Consider sharing your personal experiences with friends and family members. Help them understand what you're going through.
If someone else experiences stigma, stand up for them. Call out movies, TV shows, and other forms of media that portray mental health conditions in a negative light. Conversely, praise projects that portray positive perspectives.
Ask your primary care physician to connect you with a mental health professional. They can evaluate your symptoms and provide a diagnosis. Work with them to develop and stick to a treatment plan.
Take your medications on time. If you struggle to keep up with your medications, ask for help.
Consider moving into a senior living community. They can provide you with assistance and additional resources.
Building a routine can give your life structure. Add joy to your life by fostering friendships and picking up new hobbies.These can include:
Check your senior living community's events and activities calendar for more ideas.
You don't have to navigate your mental health condition alone. Instead, consider seeking community support for older adults.
Joining a support group will allow you to talk to other seniors who understand what you're going through.They can offer their unique perspectives or help you learn from their past experiences.
Your physical health can affect your mental health, and vice versa. Try to:
You can explore your senior living community's lifestyle programs for help. For example, their dining program can give you access to nutritious, healthy meals. Their fitness program can direct you to fun exercises that can boost your mood and physical wellness.
What is mental health stigma? It's a bias surrounding mental illness, usually formed out of ignorance or misunderstanding. Educating yourself and others can help break the stigma.
Remember, you can find more resources through your Dallas senior living community. Look no further than Whiterock Court Senior Living.
We offer Independent Living with Supportive Services, allowing you to enjoy a maintenance-free life with help when needed. Discover our exclusive programs, including daily events, chef-prepared meals, and senior-specific fitness classes. Contact us now for a tour!