Stages of the Lifespan – When to Seek Help
Navigating Older Adulthood and When to Seek Help
It is important to look after our physical, mental and emotional health as we age. For older adults, the later stages of life can bring unique challenges impacting on our wellbeing. Recognising when these challenges become significant enough to seek professional help is crucial for maintaining a high quality of life. At Prosper Health Collective, we understand the intricacies of mental health in the later stages of the lifespan and are committed to providing professional support.
Understanding Difficulties for Older Adults
Older adulthood can be marked by various psychological and emotional difficulties. These challenges can stem from a range of factors including:
- Physical Health Issues: Chronic illnesses, disabilities, or significant changes in physical health can contribute to feelings of depression or anxiety. The emotional impact of dealing with a long-term health condition can sometimes be overwhelming, affecting one’s mental state.
- Loss and Grief: Aging often involves experiencing significant losses, such as the death of a spouse, close friends, or family members. Grief and mourning can sometimes evolve into prolonged sadness or complicated grief, impacting overall well-being.
- Social Isolation: As people retire or experience the loss of friends and family, social networks can diminish, leading to feelings of loneliness and isolation. This can contribute to mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.
- Cognitive Changes: Age-related cognitive decline, including mild cognitive impairment or early signs of dementia, can affect mood and behaviour, making it challenging to cope with everyday stressors.
- Major Life Transitions: Retirement, moving into assisted living, or facing significant changes in one’s independence can be stressful and may trigger emotional difficulties.
When to Seek Help
Understanding when to seek help is crucial for maintaining mental health in older adults. Here are some signs that engaging with a Psychologist may be beneficial:
- Persistent Sadness or Depression: If feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or worthlessness persist for weeks or months, it may be a sign of depression, which requires professional attention.
- Anxiety and Excessive Worry: Excessive and persistent worry, panic attacks, or severe anxiety that interferes with daily activities may need intervention from a mental health professional.
- Difficulty Coping with Loss: If grief following the loss of a loved one is intense, lasts longer than expected, or significantly disrupts daily life, seeking help can be beneficial.
- Changes in Cognitive Function: Noticeable changes in memory, confusion, or difficulty concentrating that interfere with daily life should be evaluated by a psychologist or psychiatrist.
- Social Withdrawal: A noticeable increase in social withdrawal, reduced interest in previously enjoyed activities, or isolation from friends and family can be indicative of mental health issues.
- Struggles with Major Life Transitions: If you’re struggling to adjust to significant life changes such as retirement or relocation, and these changes are causing distress or impairing your daily functioning, therapy can offer support.
Debunking Myths About Therapy for Older Adults
There are several myths about psychological therapy for older adults that can prevent individuals from seeking help. A few common misconceptions include:
- “Therapy is only for young people.” This is not true. Therapy is beneficial for people of all ages. Older adults can gain valuable insights and coping strategies through therapy just like younger individuals.
- “Therapy won’t be effective for older adults.” Research shows that therapy can be highly effective for older adults, with evidence-based treatments such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) shown to help with depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues.
- “Seeking help means I’m weak.” Seeking help is a sign of strength and self-awareness. It shows a commitment to improving your quality of life and managing your mental health proactively.
- “Therapists won’t understand the issues faced by older adults.” Many therapists understand the unique challenges and stages of ageing. They provide tailored support that addresses the specific needs of older adults.
Why Choose Prosper Health Collective?
At Prosper Health Collective, we are dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care for older adults. We offer personalised therapy that can support the unique needs of the later stages of life and help to manage mental health conditions, improve coping strategies, and enhance overall well-being.
If you or a loved one are experiencing difficulties, taking proactive steps towards mental health care can make a significant difference in your quality of life. At Prosper Health Collective, we’re here to help you thrive through every stage of life. Contact us on 6381 0071 to learn more about how we can support you.