Raising Seniors Awareness of Mental Health

Bridging the gap and raising seniors’ awareness of mental health is crucial in encouraging them to speak out and seek help. Awareness of mental health in seniors is falling far behind the general population. Older people are still more likely to seek help for a physical problem than a mental health problem. Growing up when mental health issues were stigmatised, many seniors feel they should suffer in silence with a mental health problem, despite evidence of a positive response to early intervention.

Last week I was helping at an older person’s social group. During a conversation, an older gentleman whispered in my ear that he had recently recovered from a breakdown. I asked him why he was whispering?  He replied it wasn't something he spoke about as he felt ashamed. So, I chatted about his recovery and opened up about my lived experience of mental health.

By the end of the session, a small group of us sat chatting about our mental health and how to keep well. This made me think, when opportunities arise, we need to talk about mental health. And, initiate conversations with older people about their wellbeing. So, they know that treatment options go beyond pills. And, most importantly, to not feel ashamed to seek help.

Bridging the Generation Gap in Mental Health Awareness.

During the past ten years, there has been nothing short of a revolution in mental health. With it, has come a willingness to speak out. This is the prerequisite to seeking help. But the cultural shift may miss the older generation.

Indeed, just a decade ago, mental health issues were stigmatised. 50 years ago, people were hidden inside the walls of mental institutions or spoken about in hushed whispers.  Times have changed. Having a mental health problem is no longer taboo. It's not a sign of weakness.  So, we should be raising seniors’ awareness of mental health.  Starting conversations about their wellbeing, so they can feel comfortable and reassured in asking for support.

Mental Health Problems do not Discriminate.

You can have a mental health problem at any age.  Older people are more likely to experience additional stressors that may lead to a mental health problem. These include;

•  Reduced Mobility
•  A decline in functional abilities.
•  Chronic Pain.
•  Frailty.
•  Bereavement.
•  Caring Commitments.

Covid 19 has also increased the incidence of mental health problems in older people including;

• Depression and low mood.
• Anxiety.
• Social withdraw.
• Reduced resilience.

Yet, research suggests older people are likely to place more emphasis on physical health than mental Possibly of the opinion that depression and anxiety are part of life and to carry on.

Take Action to Reduce the Stigma in Mental Health.

Without taking action, older people are a group at risk of being left further behind when it comes to mental health. We all have a responsibility with raising seniors’ awareness about it. To act as a catalyst for change and end years of stigma. 

So much is this need that Age UK and NHS England have joined forces in a campaign to address the inequalities around the generational gap in mental health. In addition, NHS England is extending its talking therapies programme (IAPT) to accommodate the psychological needs of older carers.

I am Rachel. In my role as a community engagement officer for Right at Home Solent, I am raising seniors’ awareness of mental health.  Let us end the stigma and get talking, so more people can access timely help and support.