Seniors who struggle with mental illness are less likely to seek treatment from a Licensed Clinical Therapist for several reasons.  They have lived thorough the time when mental illness was not accepted, and people suffered many times in silence.  I often hear clients saying I think my family member had depression but it wasn’t talked about back then. Some other reasons may be:

• They are afraid to talk about their problems or worry about what others would think,
• Seniors may be unwilling to seek help due to embarrassment or fear of being judged.
• Their caregivers or family members may even be in denial.
• In older age, people tend to think there is no point in making changes in terms of mental wellbeing.

Why it is Important

• Seniors with chronic physical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes or cancer, tend to be more depressed or hopeless.
• Seniors also suffer from the effects of past trauma that was never dealt with.
• Isolation is a growing problem for seniors due to loss of a spouse or family members, living away from families
• Seniors may not be able to participate in activities previously enjoyed, or lost a sense of purpose.
• Seniors may be facing their own mortality.
• Lifetime Disappointments or past regrets outweigh the positive memories

How to Help

• Seniors may need reassurance that mental health problems are not because they are weak or crazy.
• Sometimes, what older patients really need is help putting a lifetime in perspective.
• Seniors may need help realizing that they can get better, be happier.

If you suspect or recognize that you or someone you love is suffering from mental illness or needs someone to help them find hope and life satisfaction,  call or encourage them to contact Serenity Hope CS Counseling to schedule an appointment and begin the path of healing.

~ By Julie Stoneham, MSW, LCSW

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