Stigma Around Mental Health: Impact on Older Adults in Redding
According to the World Health Organization, about 14% of adults aged 60 and older live with a mental disorder. The most common conditions are anxiety and depression. However, mental health conditions among seniors are often underrecognized and undertreated due to the stigma around mental health.
This stigma can make people reluctant to seek help. Ignoring senior mental wellness, however, can affect your longevity and quality of life.
Not sure how to prioritize emotional health in older seniors living in Redding, CA? Read on to start reducing stigma in aging seniors!
The Stigma Around Mental Health
According to this study, about 70% of older adults with mood and anxiety disorders don't use mental health services. About 50% of older adults symptomatic for a clinical diagnosis also don't use these services.
This poor use is due to the stigma associated with mental health care and poor coordination of care. About 30% of seniors surveyed said they'd feel embarrassed about getting professional help.
Stigma is a bias or prejudice that occurs when people don't understand the reason behind a situation.Stigma often develops out of fear.
The stigma around mental health comes in multiple forms:
- Self-stigma
- Public stigma
- Cultural stigma
- Structural stigma
Self-stigma occurs when you believe other people's opinions about mental illness. Their comments may make you feel ashamed.
Public stigma is shared. It occurs when a group has negative opinions about people struggling with mental illnesses.
Cultural stigma is a combination of both. It occurs when your community's beliefs cause you to negatively view yourself.
Structural stigma is built, sometimes by government or workplace policies. For example, perhaps a business denies potential employees with mental illness work opportunities.
All four types of mental health stigma can cause:
- Social isolation
- Exclusion
- Discrimination
Stigma and Social Isolation
According to the National Institute on Aging, social isolation and loneliness can increase your risk of:
- A weakened immune system
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease
- Depression
- Alzheimer's disease
- Cognitive decline
- Obesity
- Anxiety
- Death
The stigma surrounding mental health may cause you to feel rejected. A fear of discrimination or judgment may lead you to isolate yourself, creating a cycle of isolation and loneliness. Your mental and physical health may deteriorate.
The Effect
The mental health stigma can impact you:
- Economically
- Emotionally
- Socially
- Psychologically
Economic effects include finding fewer work opportunities or advancement options. You may lose wages due to unfair sick leave policies if you're struggling.
The mental health stigma can affect emotional health in older adults. They may feel:
- Worthless
- Hopeless
- Angry
- Sadness
- Shame
Socially, you may start isolating yourself from friends and family members. Remember, social isolation can cause your mental and physical health to decline.
This stigma may cause you to believe a mental illness defines you. You may feel unwilling to ask for help, which can make your symptoms worse.
Reducing Stigma in Aging Seniors
To start reducing stigma in aging seniors, we need to prioritize mental health educationin Redding, CA. A lack of education and awareness can cause people to make assumptions.
Media representation can also contribute to this stigma. TV shows and movies embrace stereotypes about people with mental illnesses. This causes viewers to believe people with these conditions are:
- Violent
- Dysfunctional
- Reclusive
To start overcoming this stigma, speak up.Be honest and open about your personal experiences with a mental illness. When you notice someone else being judged, speak up on their behalf.
When TV shows, movies, and books portray mental health in a positive light, speak out. Praise these forms of media for their positive representation.
Educate yourself. Learn more about mental health conditions to address stereotypes.Sharing these facts with others can help you remove the stigma.
Adjust Your Language
Certain words and phrases can contribute to the stigma surrounding mental health. Avoid using words like "crazy," even in a joking manner.Making small changes to how you speak can have a positive impact.
Normalize Seeking Support
Talk to others about your experiences with mental health services, like support groups and therapy. This can show there's nothing to fear about seeking support.
Instead, talk about how these mental health services benefited you.For example, joining a support group can give you an outlet. You can learn from another person's experience and perspective as you navigate new challenges.
Don't Ignore Challenges
Growing older may cause you to confront complex emotions like:
- Stress
- Sadness
- Anger
Don't bottle up these emotions. Instead, talk to someone. Expressing your fears and frustrations can help you challenge the stigma surrounding mental health.
Prioritizing Senior Mental Wellness
Prioritizing senior mental wellness can improve your mood and quality of life. You can protect your mental health by:
- Seeking treatment if you need it
- Lowering your media consumption
- Eating a healthy diet
- Exercising
- Avoiding tobacco products
- Limiting alcohol consumption
- Meditating
- Gardening
- Taking medication on time
- Setting a routine
- Connecting with other seniors
- Practicing gratitude
If you experience feelings of hopelessness or anxiety, consult a doctor. They can connect you with a mental health professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Explore your senior living community's wellness programs. Improving your physical health through a healthy diet and exercise can benefit your mental health.
Add joy to your life through engaging hobbies and activities. Ask your friends to join. Socializing can improve your mood and mental well-being.
As you learn how to manage your mental health, try practicing gratitude. This can help make everyday moments more fulfilling.
You can find helpful mental health resources through your local senior living community. Other resources include:
- National Alliance for Mental Illness
- Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
- Disaster Distress Helpline
Mental Health Awareness Seniors
Don't let the stigma around mental health keep you from seeking the help you need. Instead, educate yourself and others about the importance of senior mental wellness. Applying these tips can benefit your physical and mental health, enhancing your quality of life.
Remember, you can find more resources through your senior living community. At Shasta Estates, we help residents live an independent lifestyle while they enjoy all-inclusive amenities.
Our exclusive senior lifestyle programs can enhance your wellness and comfort. Enjoy engaging activities, chef-prepared meals, and therapy services. Contact us now to schedule your tour.