By: Alex Piercy PT, DPT
Tuesday October 10, 2023, is World Mental Health Day. Mental health disorders impact everyone from children to older adults. Approximately 15% of adults 60+ have a diagnosable mental health disorder. Depression and anxiety are the most common diagnoses and can present in many ways. It is often under-diagnosed and even when diagnosed, often under-treated in the primary care settings especially when experienced by older adults. Older people have many life stressors including the loss of loved ones, a drop in socioeconomic status with retirement, and decline in physical and/or cognitive abilities.
All these changes can increase isolation and loneliness. Mental health disorders also affect one’s physical health, including simple things like appetite. Loss of appetite further impacts low energy levels, weight, strength and can contribute to frailty, falls, and fractures. Mental health disorders also impact complex conditions leading to higher rates of heart disease, decrease function in patients who have lung disease, hypertension, or diabetes.
For all these reasons and many more, it is important that we learn how to recognize the signs and symptoms of mental health disorders. With a better understanding of these disorders by caregivers and family we can all help our loved ones who are struggling with mental health, whether they have a diagnosable mental health disorder or not. If you have a friend or family member struggling, you can encourage them to seek treatment and support them through a treatment plan prescribed by their health care provider. You can help set up appointments and/or go with them to appointments or support groups. For many people with a mental health disorder just the simple act of making or getting to an appointment feels overwhelming. Family members can engage in activities with them and most importantly listen to them. The support of a loved one can make a huge difference!
Many people worry that talking about suicide increases the likelihood of someone acting on suicidal thoughts, but that is not the case. Having a conversation does not make them more likely to act on these thoughts and could help them come to a mindset where they feel able to confide in you or a professional to seek treatment. Treatment may include any combination of psychotherapy, medication, and many other options which a qualified healthcare provider can educate you and/or your loved one on.
Here are some signs of depression to look out for:
Feelings of hopelessness, guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" mood
Irritability, restlessness, or having trouble sitting still
Loss of interest in once pleasurable activities, including sex
Decreased energy or fatigue
Moving or talking more slowly
Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
Difficulty sleeping, waking up too early in the morning, or oversleeping
Eating more or less than usual, usually with unplanned weight gain or loss
Thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts
Things That Can Help Prevent Depression:
Physical activity
Balanced diet
Getting 7-9 hours of sleep
Social activity/keeping in touch with those you care about
Participate in activities (that you enjoy)
Talking to others (friends, family, physical/occupational/speech therapist, physicians) if you have symptoms of depression
Physical activity/exercise is supported by significant quantity of research as a simple and effective way to address depression and improve your sense of well being. Exercise has been shown to increase endorphines and other beneficial chemicals in the body as well as reducing inflammation. Unfortunately, when someone is depressed, getting started with a regular exercise routine can be challenging and feel too overwhelming. Our wellness professionals and physical therapists are specialized in exercise prescription and can help you start an exercise program that is specific to you, to your needs and interests. Call and schedule an appointment with one of our wellness trainers to start your journey to a happier healthier life.