Why Is There a Stigma Around Mental Health in Older Adults?
Did you know that as many as one in eight older adults in the U.S. have had some form of mental illness? According to the research, however, only half of those got professional treatment for their symptoms.
This data underscores the importance of early mental health intervention and breaking down barriers resulting from mental health stigma. For seniors in Sheboygan, WI, adequate mental health support is crucial to ensure they live a fulfilling, active, and independent retirement for as long as possible.
So why is there a stigma around mental health? In this article, we'll examine some of the main reasons.
Why Is There a Stigma Around Mental Health?
It feels like much progress has been made in mental health, and many people are open to talking about their experiences. Yet some mental health stigma persists, especially in older adults.
Generational Differences
Older generations have different values and mindsets, and are more likely to believe they can "tough it out" if they sense emotional challenges. These generations grew up in a time when mental health wasn't discussed, and they may still feel the desire to keep these feelings private.
Some may feel a sense of shame or embarrassment if they experience a mental health challenge, as that was how these illnesses were viewed decades ago.
Overlaps With Signs of Aging
Some symptoms of mental illness, like fatigue, overlap with people's expectations of getting older.
Years ago, mental health symptoms may have been brushed aside as a natural part of the aging process, and would have been unlikely to lead to medical treatment. This can still be a deeply rooted belief for some older adults.
Seniors might react to questions about their mental health by casually laughing it off as a sign that they are getting older, or getting defensive or angry at the suggestion that their behavior implies an illness.
Mental Health Stigma In Senior Care Communities
If you have a loved one in a senior living community, it's a positive first step toward managing mental health, as there are numerous activities and social events, as well as supportive staff, to help with emotional wellness. Nevertheless, mental health stigma can prevail for some older adults.
Seniors may fear losing independence if they speak up about a mental health symptom. If they have deeply-held beliefs that a mental illness is a source of shame, it could create worry that they'll be treated differently.
It's vital to create a supportive and safe environment that normalizes having conversations about mental health to overcome this barrier.
Seniors can also downplay their symptoms. Even when they feel low, exhausted, or anxious, they may wonder if that counts as a mental health issue or is a regular part of life.
Assisted living awareness of mental health is vital to ensuring that seniors open up and seek help early.That means educating everyone about the common signs of mental health conditions.
Mental Illness Stigma: The Long-Term Health Impact
Stigma may prevent seniors from seeking help. When that happens, it can take a toll on a person's health and well-being beyond the emotional symptoms.
Longer, Harder Recoveries
Delaying treatment of a mental health condition can lead to the symptoms spiraling. In some cases, that can mean a more challenging road to recovery.
For example, a few sleepless nights in the early stages of depression or anxiety could become a more persistent condition like insomnia. Similarly, poor eating habits due to stress could put seniors at risk of conditions like diabetes.
The Risk of Isolation
When a senior tries to hide their symptoms, they might prefer to be alone on their bad days so that friends and family don't notice that they are struggling.
However, this can become a pattern of behavior that is reinforcing, with seniors viewing isolation as a means to protect themselves from others. In reality, the lack of human contact and social events worsens their mental health symptoms.
Community Support for Seniors: Practical Ways to Reduce Stigma
Stigma might be a barrier to mental wellness, but it's one that a community can overcome. Here are some of the practical steps you can take to break down barriers and support seniors with their mental health.
Behavioral Health Support: Attending Routine Check-Ins
Seniors must attend all scheduled appointments with their medical team. If there are physical or emotional signs of mental health problems, a medical professional can offer a safe, confidential avenue to talk through any concerns.
Furthermore, they can rule out any other causes for the symptoms that are unrelated to mental health, ensuring aging adults get the most appropriate treatment.
Support Groups
Group therapy can be an intimidating prospect for many adults with stigma around mental health. Yet, it's also one of the most effective ways to break down the barriers. It helps seniors discover firsthand that many of their peers are going through the same issues and worries, reducing the shame and embarrassment they feel.
Family Support
Family can often be a critical bridge between a senior and their community care team. They may be able to spot symptoms that others miss, as a close relationship allows them to see subtle behavioral changes.
Seniors will also put their trust in loved ones to operate in their best interests, which means they're more likely to turn to them for support once they are ready to talk. It's essential that family members listen to what loved ones have to say without trying to pass judgment or jump to solutions.
Mental Wellness in Aging Adults: Finding a Supportive Community
So why is there a stigma around mental health? The truth is that embarrassment stems from older attitudes towards emotional well-being and the notion that feelings should be suppressed rather than shared.
Feeling happy in retirement means taking a proactive approach to mental health and prioritizing your well-being. So, take the first step and find a supportive, active community.
Lakehouse Sheboygan offers a community with compassionate, personalized care, a variety of on-site activities, and a wellness program. Find out more by booking a tour.