American seniors face a number of challenges in their golden years, but one issue that is becoming more prevalent is depression and mental illness. More than 15% of seniors report struggling with a mental illness of some kind, and these numbers are expected to rise as the number of global seniors increases.
If you’re going through a major change, here are 5 strategies to help you cope with your feelings and rediscover the spark in your life.
Reach out to a Loved One or Doctor
While depression, anxiety, and other mental illnesses are slowly losing their stigma and are now being discussed openly in society, many individuals still feel ashamed of the moods and ideas they deal with, and isolate themselves from the people around them.
If you are struggling with your self-worth or are feeling less energetic or inspired, know that these feelings are not your fault and you should not be ashamed. Visiting a medical professional or talking with a family member can help you understand these feelings and deal with them in a healthy way.
Find a Passion that Gets You Motivated
One of the common experiences seniors face after retirement is feeling a sudden loss of purpose and meaning in their lives. For years, these individuals woke up every day with the knowledge of what they needed to do to succeed, but their ideas of success have completely changed after retiring and they don’t know what to do.
Reignite your internal fire by trying out new hobbies or rediscovering old ones to fill your day with joy. You may just discover the passion of a lifetime and create wonderful friendships along the way.
Stay Physically Active
Staying physically active is a task that many seniors struggle with, but it is a crucial step for anyone looking to manage their mental health.
Studies show that engaging in physical activity on a regular basis can provide a number of benefits to a person, including more restful sleep, greater stress relief, improvement in mood, and many other benefits to their well-being.
Think About the Things You’re Grateful for
It can be easy to go through our days regretting the decisions we’ve made or the opportunities we’ve missed out on in our lives, but for every regret, there are a thousand great decisions you’ve made that you don’t think about.
When you’re feeling depressed after a large change in your life, try to sit down and make a list of all the things you’re grateful for. A quick tally of your family, friends, achievements, hobbies, and small joys can turn your day around.
Consider Adopting a Pet
When we undergo a life change, one of the most common causes of depression is feeling lonely and isolated from our friends and family. One of the best ways to avoid this loneliness, however, is to welcome home a tiny, furry, and loveable companion.
Pets can be a source of warmth and love for seniors and give you an additional sense of purpose in your life. Because pets need regular exercise and may need to go outdoors to do their business, you also have a reason to venture beyond your suite and explore the communities and parks around you.
When you’re going through a major life change, it is understandable to feel anxious or a loss of control over your surroundings, but whatever you’re feeling, you don’t have to struggle alone. Give our team of compassionate care staff a call today at 516-496-1505 or visit us online to find out how we can help you ease through whatever changes life is bringing your way.
