Mental Health Awareness Month at Rock Creek

Mental Health Awareness Month was originally celebrated in 1949. That was 73 years ago! The goals of the sponsoring organization, originally the National Committee for Mental Hygiene (now Mental Health America), were to improve attitudes toward mental health/illness, improve services for mental health clients, and promote mental health.

Older adults are more at risk for depression. Some may have lost a spouse and are now alone.  Older adults are not as naturally healthy as they were when they were younger. They may be dependent on other people to assist with their care. They also may feel like they do not have a purpose now that they are retired, and their children are grown.

Potential signs of mental health distress in seniors are decreased participation in their social circles, substance abuse, decrease or increase in eating, or mood changes.

It is important to attend to mental health just like you would physical health. Your mental health plays a big role in your ability to maintain good physical health. Poor mental health can lead to poor physical health, sleep disturbances, or harmful behaviors.

At Rock Creek Senior Living Ankeny, IA we understand depression is a treatable condition like diabetes or hypertension. Don’t settle for being depressed at any age! It is not a normal part of getting older. A primary care physician or mental health specialist can address chronic feelings of sadness.