It’s National Mental Health Week and today we are focusing on older adults.

Senior Health Solutions Program Director at Dallas County Hospital Michelle Lori says depression and anxiety are often associated with the aging population and symptoms of mental health issues are sometimes overlooked or go unnoticed. Lori notes that depression and anxiety for older adults are typically brought on by major life changes such as transitioning to retirement, their kids are having their own families and kids, physical abilities are changing, losing loved ones and depending on others for care that can make them feel sad, guilty or worthless. 

She points out Mental Health America studies showed that 58-percent of adults 65 and older believe it is normal to get depressed as you get older. Lori says even physical changes are brushed aside sometimes as just a factor of getting old.

“Often older adults don’t necessarily associate changes in one’s physical health and functioning as possible indicators of undiagnosed or very treatable mental health issues.” 

Lori notes that it can be difficult for people to talk about mental health issues because it hasn’t quite become normalized in society.

“Often people assume that having difficulty with one’s mental health is a sign of weakness and somehow different, than having a medical illness. Additionally, there can be a stigma placed on seeing behavioral health care.”

Lori says there are several resources available for people to use to help treat mental health issues or illnesses. One of the best ways to start is by contacting your healthcare provider.