What does it mean to be mentally healthy? While there are many possible definitions, mentally healthy people can face challenges in a positive way, recover from setbacks, create and maintain good relationships, and find meaning in their lives.
It is just as important for someone in their 70s to have good mental health as it is for someone in their 30s. Being older does not diminish the need for well being. There are steps you can take to improve your mental health, no matter what age you are.
Your mental health and physical health are linked. For example, if you have cardiovascular disease or recently had heart surgery, you have an increased risk of
Feeling depressed is not a normal part of getting older. Depression itself has been associated with a number of medical conditions, including
coronary artery disease
So how can you help your body and mind? You can begin by looking at your sleep schedule. Your goal should be to get 7-9 hours of shut-eye each night. If you are having any
sleep problems, like difficulty falling asleep or not feeling refreshed when you wake up, try altering your sleep environment. Some small changes, such as relaxing before bed or adhering to a regular sleep schedule, can help. If you still have problems, talk to your doctor.
is another important ingredient in your healthy lifestyle. Whether you enjoy
swimming, or doing
yoga, there is sure to be an activity that is a good match for your overall health and fitness level. Haven’t exercised in a long time?
Make an appointment with your doctor
to find out what types of exercises are safe for you. Try not to get hung up on how much activity you should do. Remember that any activity is better than no activity.
Healthy meals give your body the fuel it needs to function properly. You will not have the energy to exercise if you have a poor diet. But what should be on your plate? Many resources recommend that your diet includes a balance of
fruits and vegetables,
whole grains, low-fat dairy products, and low-sodium foods. If you are under- or over-weight and need help with your diet, ask your doctor for a referral to a registered dietitian to help you with meal planning.
Your mind enjoys
too. You can challenge yourself by learning a new computer program, taking a watercolor class, or reading a classic novel. Explore your interests and have fun. If there is something you have always wanted to tackle, now is a good time to try it.
Humans are meant to socialize. That does not change with age. Make time for your close family members and friends. While the moments you share can be as simple as getting a coffee together or taking a stroll in the park, the caring and support you provide each other make your life more meaningful.
If your loved ones do not live near you, there are many opportunities to meet people and create positive relationships. For example, you can find out what events are offered at your local senior center, join a fitness group, volunteer, or even work part-time at a job that you enjoy.
If you feel pressure to be everywhere for everyone, know that it is okay to decline invitations or commitments. It is normal to want time to yourself to pursue solitary activities.
If you ever feel concerned about your mental health, know that there is help available. It is a positive step for you to take care of yourself. Many people start by talking with their primary care doctor, who can make a referral to a
therapist. There are also organizations online, like the
Geriatric Mental Health Foundation, which provide contact information for therapists in your area.
Make sure that you manage any chronic health problems outlined by your treatment plan. It is not uncommon for seniors to have an array of prescription medications. If you feel that the side effects from your medications make you feel sick or depressed, let your doctor or pharmacist know. There may be alternative options that include changing to a new medication or adjusting the dose you currently take.
Even if you do not feel that you are struggling right now, it is still a good idea to learn about common mental health problems that affect older adults, like depression,
dementia, and addiction. Find out what the risk factors and symptoms are. This way, if you do have a problem, you can seek help early on.
10 tips for improving the mental health of older adults. All About Seniors website. Available at:
http://www.allaboutseniors.org/blog/behavioral-health-articles/10-tips-for-improving-the-mental-health-of-older-adults. Accessed July 22, 2015.
Common mental health problems. Mental Health and Aging website. Available at:
http://www.mhaging.org/guide/problems.html. Updated February 9, 2006. Accessed July 22, 2015.
Dietary recommendations for cardiovascular disease prevention. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at:
http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed. Updated May 21, 2015. Accessed July 22, 2015.
How much sleep do we really need? National Sleep Foundation website. Available at:
http://www.sleepfoundation.org/article/how-sleep-works/how-much-sleep-do-we-really-need. Accessed July 22, 2015.
How to sleep well as you age. Help Guidewebsite. Available at:
http://www.helpguide.org/articles/sleep/how-to-sleep-well-as-you-age.htm. Updated June 2015. Accessed July 22, 2015.
Improving emotional health. Help Guide website. Available at:
http://helpguide.org/mental/mental_emotional_health.htm. Updated June 2015. Accessed July 22, 2015
Mental health and mental illness. Mental Health and Aging website. Available at:
http://www.mhaging.org/guide/mhmi.html. Updated February 9, 2006. Accessed July 22, 2015.
Physical activity for cardiovascular disease prevention. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at:
http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed. Updated May 5, 2015. Accessed July 22, 2015.
Wulsin LR, Singal BM. Do depressive symptoms increase the risk for the onset of coronary disease? A systematic quantitative review. Psychosom Med. 2003;65(2):201-210.
Last reviewed June 2015 by Michael Woods, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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