Maintaining Mental Health as You Age

As we continue to age, maintaining physical health is often a focal point when it comes to health and wellness. However, mental health also plays a large role in overall wellbeing.

Mental Health and Menopause

When thinking of menopause, hot flashes and irregular periods probably come to mind, but there’s more to it. When menopause occurs, there is a significant drop in the production of the hormones estrogen and progesterone. Although there is a multitude of physical reactions to these hormonal changes, it is important to note that this can have a negative impact on your emotional wellbeing as well.

Additionally, the following can also make you more likely to struggle with your mental health during menopause:

• Existing mental illness
• Negative feeling toward menopause
• Negative feeling toward aging
• Lack of physical activity

Mental Health and Lower Testosterone Levels

Similarly to women, men also experience a change in hormone levels later in life. Lowered levels of testosterone can produce a number of physical and emotional symptoms, including anxiety and depression.

Signs and Symptoms of Depression

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), depression is the most prevalent mental health issue among older adults. Not only is this mental health issue associated with loss and distress but, also it can lead to complications in physical, mental and social function.

Although depression manifests differently from person to person, it is important to know the common signs that may point to a struggle with mental health. Here are some symptoms to look out for:

• Feeling helpless
• Loss of interest in activities you enjoy
• Appetite and weight changes
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Irritability
• Trouble concentrating
• Self-loathing
• Loss of energy
• Anxiety and restlessness
• Unexplained aches and pains

Tips for Mental Health Wellness

As people get older, they have a tendency to isolate themselves and feel alone. Rather than withdrawing from your daily routine, try to incorporate some of these tips to boost your mood:

• Try mindfulness or mediation
• Spend time with loved ones
• Vent about your feelings
• Avoid self-criticism
• Try journaling
• Get 7-9 hours of sleep each night
• Avoid alcohol, tobacco and other drugs

When you feel overwhelmed and coping on your own doesn’t seem to make you feel any better, seek help. Reaching out to mental health professionals is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Mental Health Services in Ohio

At Southwest General Medical Group, Inc., we offer a broad range of programs designed to provide patients with the dignified and compassionate care they need to improve their quality of life and their ability to function. To learn more about our mental health services or schedule an appointment, visit our website.