Aging is related to changes in biological, physiological, environmental, psychological, behavioral, and social affairs. We mostly have heard stories about all aspects of old age, and less about how psychological change also takes place.
Research from 2018 on the aging process estimated that one in four older adults experiences some type of mental health disorder, and due to population aging, the total number of adults in need of mental health support is expected to double by 2030.
Many factors add to the vulnerability of developing mental health issues in seniors. They are likely to be external (relationship with family members, day-to-day functioning, social abilities where they are in direct touch with their surroundings) but the internal world also plays a key role. For someone who has a history of mental health issues (no matter the severity), aging can really make things hard to deal with. Studies also like to shed light up on the fact that a normal (life) process of aging can also contribute to increased issues.
Senior individuals face considerable changes in their physical and cognitive abilities along with daily routines due to health conditions. This can lead to loneliness and isolation, both of which can contribute to mental health conditions.
Another research (PAHO & WHO) stated, “Mental health problems are common among seniors and may include isolation, affective and anxiety disorders, dementia, and psychosis, among others. Many seniors also suffer from sleep and behavioral disorders, cognitive deterioration or confusion states as a result of physical disorders or surgical interventions.”
It is important to understand those old people in our family and even around us are to be treated with care. It makes it easy to think of ourselves with gray hair.
It is researched that seniors’ welfare comes from supportive social connections and secure personal relationships but be in distress from disrupted personal ties and loneliness.
1. Keep medical records in a folder and make copies for easy accessibility
2. Sort medications and keep a tally
3. Take notes when new side effects appear
4. Make a shared calendar
5. Check in frequently and pay attention to moods
6. Expand their social network
7. Find common interests and engage in activities
8. Engage in body movement (go for walks, exercise together, etc)
This is by no means the only outlook of approaches to mental health treatment.
Whatever emotions or circumstances your old member of the family is dealing with, be aware that there are a great variety of therapies with the potential to improve their day-to-day moods and quality of life.
Self-care is often seen as a luxury in Indian households, where responsibilities and family expectations take priority over personal well-being. From childhood, we are taught to put others first, to serve, to sacrifice, and to constantly meet societal and family obligations. This deeply ingrained cultural mindset often makes self-care feel like an act of selfishness.
Sitting in his corner office, Amit, the CEO of a fast-growing tech firm, rubbed his temples in frustration. “We’re losing good people,” he muttered, scanning the latest resignation letter on his desk. “Our turnover is skyrocketing, productivity is slipping, and I can feel the low energy in the office. What’s going wrong?”
Grief is an inevitable part of life, touching everyone at some point. It’s an emotional, physical, and psychological response to loss, whether that loss comes from the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, losing a job, or missing out on opportunities. For many, grief is a solitary and isolating experience, leaving individuals overwhelmed, confused, and unsure of how to move forward.
Relationships form the bedrock of our emotional lives, offering love, companionship, and a sense of security. Yet, even the most loving partnerships face challenges. Miscommunication, unresolved conflicts, life stressors, or unmet expectations can cause emotional distance and strain between partners. When these issues persist, they can erode trust, intimacy, and happiness within the relationship. Couple therapy emerges as a proven method to address these challenges, helping partners navigate their differences and build a stronger, more connected relationship.
Mental health days are a growing necessity in today's fast-paced world. These are dedicated days off from work or daily responsibilities that individuals take to focus on their mental well-being. Mental health days are not merely indulgent; they are essential for maintaining emotional balance, reducing stress, and improving overall productivity.
Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation that causes someone to doubt their perceptions, emotions, or memories. Over time, gaslighting can erode a person’s self-worth and confidence, leading to profound and long-lasting effects on mental health. Though it’s often associated with romantic relationships, gaslighting can occur in various settings, including families, friendships, and workplaces. Understanding the toll it takes and how to heal from it is essential for anyone who has experienced this form of manipulation.