I once heard Paul Hogan say in an interview, “getting old ain’t for sissies.” It’s a bit crass, and not politically correct, but there is truth in it, and that statement points to the challenge of mental health as we age.
The reality is, anxiety and depression can become more common as we age. Things that didn’t use to worry you suddenly do. Worries can build over time, and with fewer distractions, they can feel harder to shake. So how do you cope in a world that seems to become more complicated each day? 😟
What is mental health anyway?❤️🩹
For many people, mental health simply wasn’t something that was talked about growing up. You may have been taught to just get on with things, because that’s all you knew.
It’s no surprise then that when changes start to happen, whether it’s difficulty sleeping, withdrawing from others, or losing interest in things you once enjoyed, it can be hard to know what to do. 🤦♀️
Older people often tell me that their friends or partner have told them to “just get over it.” Not out of a lack of care, but because there isn’t always an understanding of what’s really going on.
What’s important to understand is that mental health is closely linked to physical health and overall wellbeing. When your mental health is affected, it can impact many areas of your life. It’s not something to ignore.
What can you do to support your mental health as you age?🤔
The first step is to pay attention. There are signs that your mental health may be starting to decline, and noticing them early gives you the chance to take action.
Some signs to look out for include:
- You feel more anxious more often
- You start avoiding social situations or making excuses not to attend
- You notice yourself thinking or speaking negatively to friends and strangers
- You are having trouble sleeping, or have lost your appetite
- You have days where you don’t feel like its worth getting out of bed
If any of this feels familiar, there are things you can do to support yourself.
- Speaking with your GP is a good place to start. This doesn’t automatically mean medication, but it can help you understand what support is available.
- Talking to friends can also make a difference. You may find that others are feeling the same way, and sharing how you feel can lighten the load.
- You can also connect with phone or online support services if you prefer to speak with someone outside your immediate circle.
- Trying something new, even something small, can help shift your mindset. Learning a skill, taking up a hobby, volunteering, or even trying a new recipe can bring a sense of purpose and change.
- Getting outside each day is also important. Moving your body, getting fresh air, and having small moments of connection with others, even a smile or a simple hello, can be very grounding.
If things start to feel overwhelming, it’s important to speak with someone who is trained to support you.
Support services include:
Beyond Blue 1300 224 636
Medicare Mental Health Line 1800 595 212
Lifeline 13 11 14
It’s important to recognise that, despite what you may have been taught, mental health is just as important as physical health.
Just as it’s normal to experience physical challenges as you age, it’s also normal to face challenges with your mental health.
Looking after both is essential to maintaining your independence and quality of life.
If something doesn’t feel right, don’t ignore it. Taking action early and using the support available can help you navigate the challenges of ageing with greater confidence. 💜