Mental Health anxiety and how to cope

I work with seniors on a volunteer basis in the area of Health and Wellness. Over the past seven years I have given many workshops on topics of interest to seniors in this area, but what I find interesting is that there is a reluctance to talk about and deal with mental health issues, especially among my sex (male).Mental health issues vary, and individuals with anxiety will likely experience different symptoms than those with depression. The following are some of the warning signs of mental health issues in seniors.

·       Noticeable changes in mood, energy level, or appetite;

·       Feeling flat or having trouble feeling positive emotions;

·       Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much;

·       Difficulty concentrating, feeling restless, or on edge;

·       Increased worry or feeling stressed;

·       Sadness or hopelessness;

·       Suicidal thoughts;

·       Engaging in high-risk activities;

·       Obsessive thinking or compulsive behavior;

·       Thoughts or behaviors that interfere with work, family, or social life.

If you're a senior experiencing mental health issues or noticing these warning signs, it's important to seek help and support. Here are some of the best ways to get assistance:

Start by scheduling an appointment with your primary care physician or geriatric specialist. They can assess your symptoms, provide a diagnosis, and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Consider seeking help from a mental health professional who specializes in working with seniors. This could be a psychologist, psychiatrist, or licensed clinical social worker. They can provide therapy, counseling, or medication management tailored to your specific needs.

Joining a support group can be immensely beneficial as it allows you to connect with others who are going through similar experiences. Look for local support groups focused on mental health issues in seniors, or consider online communities if in-person options are limited.

Reach out to your loved ones and confide in them about what you're going through. They can offer emotional support and be there to listen and understand your struggles. Sometimes, simply talking about your concerns can bring relief.

If you're in immediate distress or experiencing a mental health crisis, don't hesitate to contact helplines or crisis services. Organizations like the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (in the US), Samaritans (in the UK), or local crisis hotlines can provide you with immediate support and guidance.

Investigate local community resources specifically tailored to seniors' mental health. Senior centers, community centers, or nonprofit organizations often offer programs and services aimed at promoting mental well-being in older adults. These may include counseling, therapy, educational workshops, or recreational activities.

In recent years, telehealth services have become more accessible and convenient. Many mental health professionals now offer remote appointments via video calls, allowing you to receive care from the comfort of your own home. This can be particularly helpful if mobility or transportation is a challenge.

Engage in activities that promote self-care and overall well-being. This can include regular exercise, maintaining a healthy diet, practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation or deep breathing exercises, getting enough sleep, and participating in hobbies or activities that bring you joy.

Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and you deserve support and assistance in managing your mental health. Don't hesitate to reach out to the appropriate resources and professionals to get the help you need.