The transition from military to civilian life can be difficult for veterans, and it can be especially challenging for veterans who have experienced trauma during their service. Family therapy can play a vital role in helping veterans and their families navigate this transition and address any issues that may arise. In this article, we will explore the ways in which family therapy can support veterans during their transition to civilian life.
The Challenges of Transitioning to Civilian Life
Transitioning to civilian life can be difficult for many veterans. They may have difficulty readjusting to life outside of the military and may experience a range of emotional and psychological challenges. Some common issues that veterans may face during this transition include:
Difficulty adjusting to a new lifestyle: Veterans may have difficulty adjusting to a more sedentary and less structured lifestyle, as well as the lack of camaraderie and sense of purpose that they experienced in the military.
Difficulty reconnecting with family and friends: Veterans may have difficulty reconnecting with their family and friends after spending an extended period of time away. They may also have difficulty adjusting to changes in their relationships and family dynamics.
Difficulty finding employment: Veterans may have difficulty finding employment that is meaningful and fulfilling, and they may struggle to find a job that is a good fit for their skills and experience.
Difficulty managing symptoms of PTSD and other mental health conditions: Veterans who have experienced trauma during their service may struggle with symptoms of PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
The Benefits of Family Therapy
Family therapy can be a valuable tool in helping veterans and their families navigate the challenges of transitioning to civilian life. Family therapy can provide a safe and supportive environment where veterans and their families can work through any issues that may arise during this transition. Some of the benefits of family therapy for veterans include:
Improving communication and understanding: Family therapy can help veterans and their families improve their communication and understanding of each other. This can be especially beneficial for veterans who may have difficulty expressing their thoughts and feelings.
Addressing relationship challenges: Family therapy can help veterans and their families address any relationship challenges that may arise during the transition to civilian life. This can include issues related to reconnecting with family and friends and adjusting to changes in family dynamics.
Addressing symptoms of PTSD and other mental health conditions: Family therapy can help veterans and their families address symptoms of PTSD and other mental health conditions. This can include helping veterans to process and manage their traumatic experiences, as well as providing support for their families.
Helping veterans to find meaning and purpose: Family therapy can help veterans to find meaning and purpose in their lives after leaving the military. This can include exploring new interests and hobbies, as well as finding employment that is fulfilling and meaningful.
Improving overall well-being: Family therapy can help veterans and their families to improve their overall well-being. This can include helping veterans to manage symptoms of PTSD and other mental health conditions, as well as addressing any relationship challenges and helping veterans to find meaning and purpose in their lives.
Tips for Finding the Right Family Therapist
It is important to find a family therapist who is experienced in working with veterans and their families. Here are some tips for finding the right therapist:
Look for a therapist who is experienced in working with veterans: Veterans may have specific needs that are different from those of civilians, and a therapist who is experienced in working with veterans will be better equipped to help them.
Look for a therapist who is willing to work with the VA: Many veterans receive health care through the VA, and it can be helpful to find a therapist who is willing to work with the VA to coordinate care.
Look for a therapist who is sensitive to cultural and diversity issues: Veterans come from diverse backgrounds, and it can be helpful to find a therapist who is sensitive to cultural and diversity issues and able to work with veterans from different ethnic, racial, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Ask for recommendations: Ask other veterans or veterans organizations for recommendations of therapists who have experience working with veterans and their families.
Conclusion
Transitioning to civilian life can be difficult for veterans, and it can be especially challenging for veterans who have experienced trauma during their service. Family therapy can play a vital role in helping veterans and their families navigate this transition and address any issues that may arise. By improving communication and understanding, addressing relationship challenges, addressing symptoms of PTSD and other mental health conditions, helping veterans to find meaning and purpose and improving overall well-being. It is important to find a family therapist who is experienced in working with veterans and their families, and who is willing to work with the VA and sensitive to cultural and diversity issues.
Veterans often struggle to adjust to civilian life after their service and may require additional mental health treatment. Therapeutic care is essential for the successful reintegration of veterans into society, but the cost can be prohibitive. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to get involved and help these brave individuals access the care they need.
Donate Money
Financial donations are one of the best ways to make sure veterans have access to therapy. Mental health clinics serving veterans often rely on charitable donations as a source of funding, so be sure to check with them before you donate elsewhere. Any amount helps and will go towards helping veterans receive therapeutic interventions that can get them back on track.
Volunteer at Mental Health Clinics or Nonprofits
Organizations like Vets 4 Warriors are dedicated specifically to helping veterans receive quality mental healthcare services. Many such organizations depend heavily on volunteers to keep their operations running, so it’s worth getting in touch to see what opportunities may exist in your area. If volunteering isn’t an option for you, consider donating your time by providing pro bono services such as administrative assistance or legal advice.
Share Resources
Posting information about local mental health clinics or other resources available for veterans can go a long way towards connecting those who need help with those who are offering it. Additionally, sharing articles about veteran’s issues can help increase awareness and create a dialogue about the struggles our soldiers face after returning home from service abroad.
Provide Supportive Services
There are many supportive services out there specifically designed for veterans that don’t even involve therapy – such as career counseling or financial literacy classes – that can provide invaluable assistance to those making the transition back into civilian life. Volunteering your time or donating money in order to provide these services is an excellent way to show your support for our brave men and women who serve this country every day.
Utilize Available Resources
It’s important to make sure that veterans have access to the many resources available. This includes the Veterans Affairs Crisis Line (1-800-273-8255), which provides confidential support to those in crisis 24 hours a day. It’s also helpful to be aware of alternative therapies like yoga, music therapy, and art therapy which may be effective options for veterans experiencing mental health issues related to PTSD. Finally, there are local organizations in each state dedicated to helping veterans with their mental health needs; these programs may provide financial assistance or case management services which can help ensure that veteran’s receive the care they need.
Lobby Your Local Politicians
Mental health services for veterans don’t always make it onto lawmakers’ radars; sometimes it takes a push from constituents like you in order for them to better understand why these issues deserve attention and resources within their districts/states/towns/etc. Making sure politicians prioritize funds specifically designated for mental health initiatives targeting ex-military personnel is one great way you can use your voice (or pen) to enact real-world change!
Advocate for Policies that Benefit Veterans
Another way you can help veterans receive the mental health services they need is by advocating for policies that benefit them. This could include pushing for higher reimbursement rates for providers so veterans on a budget can get care or ensuring that veteran-specific mental health centers are adequately funded. It’s also important to advocate for programs and legislation that promote greater access to housing, education, and employment opportunities – all of which can create stability and security that may otherwise be unavailable to struggling veterans.
Allowing Veterans To Connect
It’s important to provide ways for veterans to connect with one another. You can host group meetings or events which give veterans an opportunity to share their experiences and build relationships with each other. Connecting veterans to supportive communities or organizations is also beneficial, as these groups can provide resources and a sense of camaraderie which can be invaluable in times of mental health crisis.
Educate Yourself
Finally, one of the best ways to help veterans in therapy is by educating yourself about their unique challenges and experiences. Many people are unaware that veterans face greater risks for mental health problems than civilians, or just how often these issues can arise after returning from war. You can learn more by reading books or articles about veteran’s mental health, speaking with veterans in your personal or professional networks, or simply asking questions in order to gain a better understanding of what they go through.
By taking action in any of the ways mentioned above – whether it’s donating money, offering pro bono services, informing others about available resources, providing supportive services, lobbying local politicians and advocating for policies that benefit veterans – you can make a meaningful difference in the lives of our brave men and women who have served their country. Every small effort counts and helps ensure that those most affected by war have access to the therapeutic interventions they need.
When we think of the consequences of conflict, what comes to mind is its physical toll on soldiers and their families – the service they had rendered when they fought in Iraq, Afghanistan, or the Civil War. What would the benefits of mental health care and assistance be for these former troops? Would the trauma of soldiers and officers from national combat be eliminated with online counseling?
We see this in the way that many military professionals put their lives on the line to fight for freedom and their people, especially during World War I and II, which includes America. Many go home with physical wounds that are treated through physical therapy or hospitals. However, there is also a mental toll on the soldiers fighting battles for the representation of service of their country that can be addressed through counseling. After all, these battle pros who previously served the US Department need care.
Military Professionals And Counseling Services
What is not visible are the non-physical ramifications that a veteran may find instead of the compensation received from their service. It’s not as easy to diagnose a mental illness, and it can consequently worsen as these veterans, who are service members, don’t realize that we cannot always see wounds.
Wars leave mental scars from the violence that cause deep suffering to soldiers. Despite these challenges, there are a number of steps veterans can take to put their experience in perspective and regain a sense of control and normalcy.
Counseling for a war veteran member is a way for clashing veterans to address the negative impact of their experience as they go back home to their families and friends. It has a lot of benefits for them. It’s not uncommon for mental health issues and social difficulties to be experienced by former service members coming home.
Veterans’ Mental Health Issues As Military Personnel
There are a variety of mental and social problems that clashing veterans and their families face when returning home. As dedicated service members, they have had their fair share of high-stress operations that have left marks on their psyche. These problems can often manifest in their behaviors and in how they express their stress reactions. Veterans find that the battlefield they left behind can find many ways to continue haunting them in their homes, even when they are with their families.
One of the most common mental health problems war veterans (both men and women veterans) may face is PTSD or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. This disorder is often developed in a person, in this case, war veterans who served their country and face traumatic events. In the face of the dangers of violence, a heightened stress reaction such as the fight-or-flight response is not at all uncommon. However, these veterans and soldiers can retain this reaction and behavior once the situation has passed, causing nightmares, flashbacks, and different arousal symptoms when faced with triggers.
PTSD And Combat Stress Are Only A Few Of The Possible Problems That Soldiers Might Struggle With
Many of these are co-occurring mental health conditions, meaning that you can have more than one condition that affects each other. Treating one can often alleviate others’ symptoms, but all of these conditions have a real impact on a USA war veteran’s life and should be diagnosed and treated as soon as possible. They must learn how to treat and manage these conditions to improve their quality of life.
Seeking Help From Military Professionals Counselors
The key is not to be afraid to seek help regarding veterans’ affairs. War veterans centers and veteran counselors are available and are responsible for addressing the needs and concerns of war veterans. Their families and friends are there for guidance. Counselors work closely with veterans and their communities to help them adjust back to civilian life and provide them with helpful advice. These could be anything from financial difficulties, health resources, emotional department, etc.
Counselors must have access to valuable information regarding the mission. Operations, and where they may have been deployed before, for them to be able to evaluate these veterans appropriately.
Counselors for Afghanistan war veterans, for example, must put the veterans’ mental and emotional well-being first. Counseling to help them avoid mental health issues and even the thought of suicide tremendously benefits service members. Addressing the mental health issues listed above is part of their work. Not only that but helping them adjust to the transition from the military to the civilian environment is a challenge they are there to guide war veterans through.
Many forms of counseling veteran counselors can provide to address the variety of mental, emotional, and social difficulties war veterans can encounter. Counseling focused on the transition from a military environment to civilian life is called readjustment counseling. This counseling addresses a range of both psychological and social issues through individual and group counseling for both veterans and their families.
A variety of veterans counseling services focuses on different concerns and needs of war veterans. Bereavement counseling assists those who have lost a loved one. Military sexual trauma counseling addresses the needs of war veterans who have suffered sexual trauma in the military service. These are tailored to address different needs.
The Stigma Against Seeking Counseling For Soldiers And Government Vets
It is not bad to need help. The stigma against mental health issues prevents many war veterans from seeking professional help and support from seeking veterans’ counseling. Support and counseling services such as readjustment counseling can be vital in the transition to civilian life. However, the stigma born from the view that mental health issues are a sign of weakness and a generally negative outlook on mental health can cause veterans, and those around them, to hesitate to acknowledge that there is a problem.
Support from others and help from veteran counselors can truly make a difference in easing the transition. Many veterans share their stories of keeping their silence about these problems versus finding the support and help they need.
Veteran service and other veteran healthcare institutions, including the Department of Veterans Affairs, offer services to give back to the soldiers who have fought for the country and improve their quality of life. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides vital services and benefits to U.S. veterans, including healthcare, education, and disability compensation.
Mental and social health issues are existing problems that can lead to serious consequences. These issues do not lessen a person’s worth, nor do they mean that there is no more hope.
Recovery Is Possible
Even in the news, they show that service members’ path is difficult and fraught with difficulties. These brave soldiers have fought and experienced terrors to keep their countries safe, and in their times of battles, they have accumulated both defined physical and mental wounds.
Life after combat is still an uphill battle. A soldier truly benefits from all the help he can get to heal from the marks left by their former operations and military service and transition back into civilian life. Veteran counseling can be the best provider of care that they need to reach the peace they have fought for.
Mental health is an all-new battle, but our soldiers don’t need to fight alone. Together, with the help of counseling and the auxiliary support of family and friends, recovery is possible. Contact a professional now!
FAQs
What is considered a war veteran?
A war veteran is someone who has served in their country’s armed forces during a time of war or in a conflict zone. This designation encompasses individuals who may have been involved in combat, active duty, or various support roles during wartime as part of their military service. The criteria for being recognized as a war veteran can vary by country, military branch, and the nature of the conflict. War veterans, often referred to as veterans, frequently receive certain benefits and support from the government or veterans’ organizations as a recognition of their service.
What are the 4 types of veterans?
What are some veterans names?
How old is a war veteran?
What are the 5 types of veterans?
Veterans can be categorized in various ways based on their periods of service and the nature of their military experience. Common categorizations include:
war veterans (those who served during periods of active conflict)
peacetime veterans (who served during times of peace)
combat veterans (directly involved in combat operations)
service-specific veterans (based on branch of service)
era-specific veterans (served during specific time periods)
Are you still a veteran if you didn’t go to battle?
Are you depressed and worried about your mental health? Or perhaps you have older adults that you’re responsible for taking care of at home who also have other medical illnesses? The American Psychiatric Association states that older adults are a risk factor for many health problems as they have gone through several stressful life events. They need more mental health attention from health care providers. They may also have a cognitive impairment, and their declining health makes it all the more important that they go through the proper treatment, such as psychosocial treatments and other treatment options for their mental health.
What Is Late-Life Mental Illness?
Feelings of sadness and occasional “blue” moods are normal. An elderly person may have overcome many challenges, but they’re not immune to stress, minor physical pain, and some mental health concerns, such as acute depressive symptoms, alcohol abuse, substance abuse, and more. Late-life depression may be a common occurrence. But is this really normal? Are elderly patients typically prone to developing depression, anxiety disorders, or other mental disorders? In this article, we look at the condition in older adults and how counseling for mental health can help.
Depression – whether minor depression or major depression – affects about 6 million Americans who are in the age group of 65 years and older. However, only 10% of older adults with the condition get the mental health treatment they need. This is because it manifests quite differently and may be easily confused with other symptoms of mental disorders.
The Depression Scale
Late-life depression tends to last longer and may coincide with pre-existing medical illnesses or chronic diseases that may worsen its effects. More so, older adults or depressed elderly patients who have this type of the mental health issue are more at risk of developing cardiac diseases and other health problems. Research suggests that people should seek a mental healthcare professional other than the usual primary care provider for an official diagnosis. Although this is a part of aging, it should not be left untreated.
Numerous peer-reviewed studies have shown that geriatric depression, a mental condition, is a common and serious issue among older adults, significantly impacting their overall health and quality of life. Subsyndromal depression, or subthreshold depression, is a milder form of depressive symptoms that may not meet the full criteria for a major depressive disorder but can still have significant negative effects on an older adult’s mental and physical health.
Moreover, the diagnosis of late-life depression increases the risk of suicidal ideation and suicide among aging or elderly depressed patients. Statistics show that compared to the general population, the suicide rate among older adults aged 80-84 is twice higher than that of younger adults. Due to this, the National Institute of Mental Health considers the condition in older adults to be a significant public health concern. On the scale, severe depression in older adults had high scores, and next in line were patients and older adults who suffer from moderate ones.
Depression Symptoms (Including Physical Symptoms)
Recognizing the signs of late-life depression is essential so that the proper ways to treat the condition can take place. The common symptoms of it in older adults may include the following:
Loss of energy and constantly feeling tired; may feel physical pain
Cognitive impairment, mood disorder, and memory problems
Declining health, including physical illness, delayed recovery, etc.
Sleeping problems
Change in appetite (that can lead to alarming weight gain or weight loss)
The feeling of confusion and inability to hold focus
Suicidal ideation or attempts (need for tricyclic antidepressants)
Causes Of Late-Life Depression
There are many possible causes of the mental condition, and they may be connected with older adults’ health and overall living environment. These causes include:
Pre-existing medical conditions in the family history, like a history of depression, chronic medical illness, cognitive impairment, physical illness, substance misuse, mood disorder, or other disabilities, can affect the mental health of older adults and elderly patients. Enduring pain from the mental condition can take a toll on anyone’s mental health, leading to senescent melancholy. Some medical conditions that can cause depressive disorders in older adults include:
As typical elderly patients or older adults with depression go through life, they may experience losing their loved ones. The mental condition can be seen as part of the grieving process, but it can lead to more harmful situations with poor coping skills. The need for effective treatment resources is tremendously significant for safety and recovery.
Fear And Anxiety
Older adults’ fears and anxieties can also be possible causes of the mental condition. This includes their fear of having a physical illness, recurrent major depression, or dying suddenly. Treating depression for these older adults or elderly patients is crucial.
Counseling And Treating Depression In Older Adults
Psychotherapy and other methods to treat depression must be administered. Elderly patients and older adults with a mental condition or a family history of depression must be given effective treatment to relieve depression and help them cope with their life challenges. Through counseling, the elderly can manage their emotions and cope well with symptoms and other changes in their lives.
The goal of depression counseling sessions is to find the root cause of the melancholy. Professional counselors will guide their clients to be comfortable with their feelings and identify the factors that cause them to feel sad.
Professional counselors can act as additional support groups that you can always rely on aside from your family members. They can connect with you about your troubles or other medical conditions. More so, every session can fit your preferences as it is a safe space where you can speak and share your thoughts as freely as you want without any hints of judgment. Contact them if you have to.
Late-Life Depression
Depression counseling for the geriatric group can address a wide range of symptoms and causes of the mental condition among the elderly. Many doctors recommend undergoing counseling together with antidepressant substance medications.
Depression may be common among the elderly, but it doesn’t have to be the norm. Luckily, there are many available treatments available for the geriatric population that has depression. Treatments and programs may include medications, forms of brain stimulation, and psychotherapy or counseling. Changing one’s lifestyle can also be an essential step in addressing mental health issue.
Medications
Note that there are various antidepressant medications available for depressed older adults that can stabilize a person’s mood. Licensed mental health providers can prescribe tricyclic antidepressants for depressed patients with severe depression, depressed mood, or some psychiatric disorders. However, with the geriatric population, caution must be practiced when taking antidepressant medication. Those who have maintenance medicines for their health conditions must be careful with what kind of tricyclic antidepressants they take to avoid adverse reactions and further damage to the mental health of older adults.
Lifestyle Changes
Adopting a better lifestyle can significantly affect a person’s mental health. To increase their physical activity, the elderly can find a new hobby or develop a new skill. Exercising regularly and eating a well-balanced diet are also imperative for alleviating the mental condition.
Late-Life Depression And Electroconvulsive Therapy
Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)
When the older community of people can’t take drugs such as tricyclic antidepressants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, and other types of antidepressant medication because these can interact with their other medicines, ECT can be an alternative treatment due to their effectiveness.
There’s still a stigma regarding depression and mental illness concerns, and even more when it’s the geriatric people who suffer from it. They may think that the sadness that they’re feeling is just a normal part of growing old, but it’s not.
When a person is deeply troubled by sad thoughts, they must seek and access professional help and support. In times like this, a counselor can lift some of the heaviness you’re feeling when your family can’t. If you know someone who’s having trouble with depression, encourage them to undergo a counseling session and always provide them with love and support.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common cause of depression in the elderly?
Depression in the elderly often results from a complex mix of factors.
health issues
social isolation
loss and grief
medication side effects
cognitive decline
life changes
family history
substance abuse
sleep problems
physical inactivity
Recognizing the warning signs is essential. While it’s not normal symptoms of aging, depression is a common mental health concern among older individuals. The good news is that depression treatment is possible with the right interventions, such as therapy, medication, and lifestyle adjustments, making it important to seek help and support when needed.
How do you deal with depression in geriatrics?
The treatment of depression in geriatrics involves consulting a healthcare provider for assessment and may include therapy where they can share their feelings and thoughts. Medication, social support, and a healthy lifestyle are also important. Family involvement and regular follow-up are crucial for the successful management of depression and overall well-being in healthcare.
Which are the risk factors of late-life depression?
Depression in older adults can be influenced by several risk factors. This can include advanced age, chronic health conditions, cognitive decline, loss and grief, and social isolation. Other factors are family history, medication, and trauma. Identifying the risk factors of depression in older adults, recognizing the symptoms of depression, and seeking possible treatment from health care professionals or mental health professionals are vital steps to improve the quality of life of the elderly.
What are some signs and symptoms of the mental condition in the elderly population?
What is the best antidepressant for geriatric patients?
Which clinical feature is related to depression in older adults?
Does depression improve with age?
When does depression usually develop?
Why is depression often underdiagnosed in older adults?
What are the consequences of depression in the elderly?
Depression in older adults can lead to physical and cognitive decline, heart disease, social isolation, and an increased risk of suicide. It also negatively affects overall quality of life and can lead to greater health care utilization and mortality.
In statistics, it is reported that the most number of people dealing with mental health issues, particularly anxiety, and depression, are the ones whose ages are 20 to 30 years old. But despite that fact, it does not mean that children, teens, and the golden agers are exempted. Based on relevant data from studies and research, the elderly are actually prone to depression. But not in a way like the majority deals with mental health, but in a portion where they tend to suffer from the mental condition because they grow old.
Yes, older adults struggle with depression because of a lot of factors. And in these frequently asked questions below, we will touch more about those details.
Importance Of Discussing Depression In Elderly People
Depression is a significant mental health concern for elderly people, and discussing it is essential for their overall well-being. Depression in older adults often goes undiagnosed or untreated due to the belief that it is a normal part of aging.However, it is not a typical part of aging and can significantly impact an elderly person’s quality of life, including their physical health, functional abilities, and social interactions.
Additionally, symptoms of depression among the elderly can often be mistaken for other physical problems or physical health conditions or go unnoticed by family members or healthcare providers. As a result, it is essential to have open discussions about depression among the elderly to raise awareness, reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness, and promote early diagnosis and other treatments.
Furthermore, discussing depression among the elderly can help to improve communication between healthcare providers and their patients. Elderly people may have difficulty communicating their emotional experiences or may not realize that their symptoms are related to depression. Thus, by discussing depression with elderly people, healthcare providers can identify the same symptoms and provide the necessary support groups and resources.
Discussing experienced depression in elderly people is crucial for their overall well-being. It can help promote early diagnosis and treatment, reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness, and improve communication between healthcare providers and their patients. By having open discussions about depression, we can better support the mental health needs of the elderly and improve their quality of life.
Challenges And Barriers Of Older People With Depression
Elderly people with depression face several challenges and barriers that can prevent them from receiving the appropriate care and emotional support. Some of these challenges and barriers include:
Stigma: Depression, including major depression, is often stigmatized in the elderly, with many people believing that it is a normal part of aging or a sign of weakness. This stigma can prevent the elderly from seeking help or sharing their experiences with others.
Access to health care: Older people with depression may face barriers in accessing mental health services, including transportation, financial limitations, and a lack of available mental health professionals.
Ageism: Older people may face ageism, which can prevent them from receiving adequate care and support. Ageism can manifest in many ways, such as healthcare providers assuming that more mature individuals are less likely to benefit from treatment options or are less capable of making their own healthcare decisions.
Physical health issues: Elderly people with depression may also have physical health issues that can complicate their treatment, such as chronic pain, mobility issues, or cognitive impairment.
Social isolation: Elderly people with depression may be at higher risk of social isolation, which can exacerbate their symptoms and make it more challenging to seek help or access care.
Medication side effects: The elderly may be more susceptible to medication side effects, which can make it challenging to find the right treatment plan.
Addressing these challenges and barriers requires a comprehensive approach that includes addressing stigma and ageism, improving access to mental health services, and providing support for older people with physical health issues or social isolation. It is essential to recognize the unique challenges that older age groups with depression face and work to ensure that they receive the appropriate care, treatment of depression, and support to manage their symptoms effectively.
What Is The Most Common Cause Of Depression Among The Elderly?
The following risk factors that often cause depression in the elderly include certain types of drugs or a combination of different antidepressant medications. Sometimes, damage to the body, such as cancer surgery, amputation, or a heart attack, can increase older adults’ levels of depression. Family history of major depressive disorder or genetics also plays a role. Lastly, social isolation, living alone, and fear of death can contribute to mental illness.
How Does Depression In Older Adults Differ From Depression In Younger Adults?
Depression in older people impacts them differently due to a lot of factors. Some of these often occur along with disabilities and other medical illnesses that tend to last longer. Usually, older people suffer severely from mental health, particularly with depressive symptoms, due to their fears and worries about their health conditions such as stroke, heart disease, or cancer.
Older adults are more focused on physical health, but they tend to worry a lot about their depression symptoms. Meanwhile, younger people are still on the verge of figuring out the importance of their overall wellness.
How Does Retirement Affect The Elderly?
Generally, retirement leads to a larger decline in physical health outcomes, especially in males. That is because some of them suffer from self-reported health difficulties that affect mood, illness conditions, and mobility. Also, conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and stroke are at high risk. With these occurrences, male golden agers experience a post-retirement void. Often, these old people feel like their engagement in society is already in the end structure. Thus, these thoughts give them a strong overwhelming feeling that escalates into severe depression.
That particular mental health makes the elderly isolate themselves just like the younger people. With depression from retirement, they tend to withdraw themselves from the world around them because they get stuck with the idea that their life already ends there and that death is near. Most golden agers believe that there is not enough time for them to celebrate life.
What Are The Psychological Problems Of The Elderly?
According to disease control experts, the most common mental health problems that elderly people experience are Anxiety Disorders, Eating Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, PTSD, and Depression. In some instances, the elderly also suffer from uncontrollable anger, substance abuse, and stress-related health problems. Also, the elderly experience common cognitive impairments and other mental dysfunction such as Dementia and Alzheimer’s
What Is The Safest Antidepressant For The Elderly?
Like any other medications, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and newer antidepressants are all relatively safe in the elderly. Examples of these medicines are mirtazapine, moclobemide, bupropion, and venlafaxine. But some antidepressants work fine with others but are dangerous to the elderly. These are amitriptyline and dothiepin or known as Tricyclic antidepressants. The elderly should avoid these drugs, for there is a risk of taking an overdose.
It would help if the elderly sought proper treatment despite their belief that it is unnecessary. They have to consider making an effort in talk therapy sessions and certain medications.
What Exact Age Is Considered Old For A Woman?
A national institute researcher found that once you reach the age of 73 to 73 for women, you are considered old. The United Nations has agreed that the old age of a female should be 65+ years. However, the World Health Organization (WHO) set the age of 55 as the beginning of older women’s old age.
What Are The Signs Of A Nervous Breakdown?
Nervous breakdown symptoms include insomnia or sleep problems, hallucinations, extreme mood swings, unexplained outbursts, anxiety with high blood pressure, dizziness, upset stomach, trembling, and tense muscles. Sometimes, depressive symptoms increase the feeling of hopelessness and thoughts of suicide or self-harm. It is significantly important to take a moment to acknowledge the symptoms and seek professional help immediately.
Does Depression Make You Age Faster?
Some studies show the brain’s dysfunction when you feel depressed. There is a high tendency that the brain physically age faster than those who are mentally okay. Depression can physically change a person’s brain and leave it more susceptible to all sorts of illnesses associated with old age.
But of course, not all cases of depression are like that. Some of them are manageable too. But then again, it requires a lot of effort to get rid of it before it becomes a big deal.
Can Depression In The Elderly Mimic Dementia?
Often, older people who have a depressed mood for at least two weeks appear to have trouble sleeping, are tired, or seem grumpy and irritable. The warning sign of emotional distress or depression can all produce symptoms that can be mistaken as early warning signs of dementia. It also goes along with memory and communication difficulties as well as behavioral changes. Also, attention problems caused by depression can often look like Alzheimer’s disease or other brain disorders.
What Are The Negative Effects Of Retirement?
Retirement usually leads to a significant decline in physical health, especially in men. Many individuals’ results indicate that absolute retirement reaches a 5-16 percent increase in complications connected with critical thinking, problem-solving, mobility, and daily functions. Retirement increases the odds of suffering from major or clinical depression. Often, the individual gets stuck with the idea that he now lacks purpose.
How Do You Help The Elderly Who Cope With Retirement?
The ways you can help the elderly adjust to their retirement better and feel fulfilled and happy during this chapter of their lives are through optimism and effort. Expect that these old adults will go through a series of emotional stages that they cannot often understand. Thus, it would be best to guide them to set small goals. That way, with a person’s ability, he can structure their days and live their life according to their heart’s desire. Allow the elderly to grow their friendship so that they will feel that they are not alone.
Honestly, there is no greater way to help them than to be there for them. Friends and family should provide comfort, safety, understanding, and unconditional love to the elderly because that is all they want in their limited time and support them in their healthy lifestyle changes.
What Happens To The Brain When You Retire?
Some studies point out that there is a correlation between retirement and poorer health. When older adults tend to stop or alter their routines, they experience a decline in cognitive functioning. Sometimes, it results in as much as double the rate of cognitive aging. Thus, they become more susceptible to a greater risk of developing various types of mental illnesses such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
What Is The Most Common Psychiatric Disorder In The Elderly?
The most general neurological and mental disorders that the elderly experience are depression and dementia. These two particular psychological problems affect approximately 5% and 7% of the globe’s older population, respectively. But elderly mental health conditions are not limited to dementia and depression only some of them also experience anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and bipolar disorders.
What Are The Most Common Psychiatric Illnesses In The Elderly?
The most common psychiatric illness in the elderly is depression. Usually, older adults’ mood disorder get associated with distress and emotional suffering. The severity of their mental health condition often leads to several impairments in physical and social functioning. But aside from depression, quite several elderly also experience complications due to anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and bipolar disorders.
What Are The Major Old Age Problems?
Some of the major old age problems include malnutrition, faulty diet, gluttony, intoxication, infection, inadequate rest, overwork, emotional stress, and an unpleasant way of living. Medical conditions like stroke, cancer, heart disease, and diabetes are among the most common in older adults causing two-thirds of the population’s deaths each year.
What Is The Best Way To Treat Mental Health Disorder In The Elderly?
The best approach to treating mental health disorders in the elderly involves a combination of therapy and, in some cases, medication. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and supportive therapy can be effective in addressing issues like depression and anxiety in the elderly population. Additionally, strong social support and engaging in activities that promote emotional well-being are crucial.
What Is The Best Antidepressant For Seniors?
There is no single “best” antidepressant for seniors, as the choice of medication depends on individual factors such as overall health and side effects. However, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like sertraline and escitalopram are often considered safe and effective options for treating depression in seniors due to their more favorable side effect profiles.
What Is A 1st Line Antidepressant In The Elderly?
The term “1st line antidepressant” refers to the antidepressant that is generally prescribed as the first choice in the treatment of depression. In older adults, SSRIs, mentioned above, are often considered the first-line treatment due to their effectiveness and safety profile. However, the choice of antidepressant should be tailored to each patient’s individual needs.
What Are 5 Drugs To Avoid In The Elderly?
There are several medications that older adults should avoid due to an increased risk of side effects or dangerous interactions. Some of these include benzodiazepines like diazepam, which can cause excessive sedation and falls, as well as anticholinergic medications like amitriptyline, which can worsen cognitive problems. Additionally, older adults should exercise caution with medications that can cause hypotension or heart issues, such as some antipsychotics and antiarrhythmics.
What Will Happen If Having Persistent Low Moods Will Not Be Treated?
If persistently low moods are not treated in older adults, it can have serious consequences for their quality of life. Untreated depression in the elderly can lead to a decline in physical function and mobility, increase the risk of medical issues like heart disease, and negatively impact social relationships. Furthermore, untreated depression can increase the risk of suicide in older adults, underscoring the importance of seeking proper treatment and support.
Surviving in business is not an easy task, especially if you are dealing with unreasonable adjustments. You might experience all sorts of stress, such as managing the workplace, dealing with different types of people, and maintaining an entrepreneurial goal. There is mental health pressure everywhere. Sometimes, these mental health pressures are worth your life, making you physically, emotionally, and psychologically incapable. But the good thing is, there are better ways to manage that. Here are a few tips that can help you maintaining and strengthening business mental health while handling a very stressful enterprise.
Different Healthy Business Options
One essential factor of a stressful business is the working pattern. Usually, you can only expect two things when handling an enterprise. You either comply with the standards or follow a tiring and sometimes dull health routine for entrepreneurial duties and responsibilities. Or you get to be creative in every little thing you do. It is quite evident that you need to choose the latter. That is because you get to enable yourself to accomplish tasks productively by building resilience and focusing on self-care, which includes some of the following:
Time management
Enough sleep
Proper hydration
Healthy diet and lifestyle
Exercise
Meditation
Always Focus On Looking After Your Emotional Health And Overall Wellness
Research shows that your emotional well-being is as significant as your cognitive soundness. Actually, both affect you almost in the same way. When you are not emotionally stable, you become psychologically unstable as well. With that, you need to try to work things out by regulating your mental health and mood. It can be done by looking out for something that annoys and angers you. At times, it would be challenging to avoid irritating situations, especially at a workplace with many different people and time-bounded tasks. Even employees’ mental issues can be draining, and long term effects might take place. But for the sake of physical and psychological soundness survival, you have to practice controlling your emotions to avoid risk. Focus on best practices that manage stress and enhance physical activity. That way, you can better react and respond to the constant nerve-racking circumstances whether at work or home. This is especially true for older adults managing their own company and employees’ mental health. Besides physical wellness, older adults should also take into consideration their emotional soundness since they are not immune to stress, minor physical pain, anxiety, andgeriatric depression. Some of the following are the things you can consider doing:
Thinking before speaking
Listening skills
Avoid making excuses
Stop overthinking
Not making a big deal out of unimportant things
Finding The Best Methods That Suit Your Overall Wellness Needs
Speaking of health and wellness, of course you do agree that there are a lot of things you can do to maintain well-balanced mental health. In fact, some of those are already mentioned previously in this article. However, though you somehow know how good and reliable these things are, it will all still go down to your discretion. That is because of the tendency that even the best helpful tips for keeping you emotionally and psychologically well will not work for you. With that, you need to take an advanced step in choosing the right methods to help you deal with challenging things and manage stress related to entrepreneurial handling. You have to assess your limits and capabilities so that you can determine the solutions to the challenges you face inside and outside your entrpreneurial-related life. Here are some of the following things you might need to look into:
Working on your preferred time and pace
Giving yourself a break because you need to
Allowing time to pass by from time to time
Keeping yourself active
Socializing with people
Traveling and having fun
Understanding And Accepting That You Can’t Always Do Everything
Just because you managed to develop an idea single-handedly and started an entrepreneurial journey, that does not mean you are invincible. Research organization shows that there are tons of things you are unable to do alone, and you know that. Be kind to admit that you cannot deal with things sometimes and require other people’s help. You must realize that the only way you can save yourself from stress and anxiety from entrepreneurial pressure is to accept that things do not always go your way. Acknowledge that sometimes, even if you try hard, some of your life areas can affect you. These may include your financial stability, previous medical conditions, family, personal relationships, etc. The damages these bring come with no warning as you continue to suffer. Therefore, you need to become open-minded about asking for help services from those people around you. That is regardless if they can help or not, or even if you think you don’t have to bother needing them. You might have to focus and reflect on some of the following:
Crying when you feel like it
Asking for someone’s help
Appreciating people’s presence
Finding the right support system
Expressing your thoughts and feelings
Access and learning from failure
Accepting your imperfections
Final Thoughts And Insight To Consider
It is essential that in business priority, you never look at things in one direction only. There are always two sides to the story. You may be mentally exhausted now, but when you understand that it is okay, it might amaze you to see yourself smiling after a couple of while. Stress is inevitable, but you have to work on the matter. You ventured into business, and negativity is somehow part of it. Give your best shot in dealing with stress with confidence and self-love.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Handling business and working alongside the family can be very overwhelming at some point. It affects almost every aspect of the relationship as it mingles with the majority of the business issues. Sometimes, it creates chaos instead of increased productivity. As a result, it normally ends up with entrepreneurial failure. Fortunately, there are better ways to combat this family and business-related challenges.
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Allow Everyone To Speak – Allowing everyone in the family to speak their minds does not guarantee that each of the ideas must get executed. It is more like letting people express their thoughts and opinions about the business matter. That way, it can open a particular discussion that can create a healthy exchange of ideas and visions. From there, everyone in the family can get a share of thoughts of which resolution would fit better in a particular business matter.
Learn To Listen – Discussing different thoughts and ideas about business resolutions is useless when family members do not listen. When everybody only wants to speak and express himself but is not open to hearing others out, it is still a problem. It is essential to understand that a healthy discussion is a two-way interaction. If family members want to share their business ideas, they should also learn how to listen to other members’ ideas. Family members must understand that their opinions matter regardless if it gets executed or not.
Source: pexels.com
Let Everyone Contribute – A family business functions if everyone in the family understands and commits to their roles. That is why all family members who have a connection in the business must work on completing their designated duties. Because if one fails to comply, there is a tendency that the company might get crippled. It can create a different amount of stress to the family because of the added duties they might have to deal with due to the other members’ inability to fulfill a task. Let skilled people work within their skill set; veteran cybersecurity experts should work at their computers, for example.
Limit Emotional Responses – One of the apparent reasons why a family business often fails is when family members rely on emotional responses. That is because of its impact on unprofessional behavior when it comes to business endeavors. Usually, when family members rely more on emotions, they create bad decisions for the company. However, everyone might agree that it is not always the case. Still, a significant percentage of that action results in slow-progress in business development.
Never Argue When Angry – Most of the time, people believe that an angry intonation of voice wins the argument. Somehow they think that shouting and bursting into a rage is the key to convince everyone into getting a unanimous decision. What they fail to recognize is that when family members often argue, things do not get resolved. It just leads to everyone having hatred towards each other because of disrespectful behavior. It is important to note that resolutions don’t end well when people do not agree wholeheartedly.
Source: pexels.com
Use Encouraging Words – It is human nature to thrive hard when sufficiently motivated. That explains why when you encourage someone; they tend to exceed their limitations. They become more aware of their strengths and vulnerabilities. But if you continuously insult them, they begin to lose all the interest they need to put up with the business. Therefore, it is always an excellent choice to let the family participate in the business by using appropriate and encouraging words to make way for strengthening business mental health.
Treat Everyone Fairly – In a family business, there are always these individuals that will not comply with their duties, not unless they get something in return. It is common for family members to practice this trait because they somehow think that doing business with family is advantageous. They believe that family members should be treated highly compared to other employees. Therefore it means they should receive more while working less.
Never Fall For Demands – Family members are often demanding. That is because they use the “blood card” regardless of professional relations. Often, they get away with their business mistakes because they pressure the family members in charge of the business. These people take advantage of the familiar role and use it to get what they want. Family members must never listen to their demands and ignore their insults and judgments.
Source: pexels.com
Act Professional – Business is business. Regardless if family members are close to each other or not, it should not become an excuse to ruin the dedication of the one handling all the effort. If they entirely support the benefit of the family business, everyone should act professionally. They all need to think from a business-minded perspective and not take advantage of the situation. Family members must understand that their roles in the business are crucial. That a particular mistake of one can lead to everybody’s failure.
Overcoming entrepreneurial issues is not easy, especially when you have to deal with it along with your family. These skills also apply outside of the family, and can be used in veteran networking. It is essential to understand that not because they are family, they automatically understand.
With the emergence of COVID-19, it’s as if the world has stopped moving. It is because social distancing protocols force residents to stay inside their homes, and businesses had no choice but to close down.
This situation has resulted in massive economic pain and burden, and opening these companies can save this economic downfall. However, business people are confused about how to go about this given the new normal.
“Managing stress is important as a business owner,” shares Amanda Pratt MSW, LCSW. “This means that if we burn out, it can ultimately slow business progress or momentum and when we aren’t well, our businesses can’t be well.”
She also adds “We also know that if we cope poorly with stress, we tend to have worse physical and mental health outcomes overall, so business owner or not, this is an area that I feel should be a top priority for all of us.”
Given this, business owners need to familiarize themselves with adjusting and adapting to the new normal of doing business. To help, here are some of the best business strategies that you can employ in the new normal.
Embrace The Digital World
Since individuals are more scared to go out of their homes, one of the ways to survive is to go digital. Take this critical step so that you can bring your products and services directly to your consumers. Two examples perfectly illustrate this.
First is the rapid increase in delivery service. People do not want to go in line at supermarkets or restaurants since they’re afraid to be around many people.
With this in mind, businesses began setting up their delivery services to bring these needs directly to their customers. This strategy is useful in gaining the trust and loyalty of their customers.
Another thing to note is the shift of the physical business model for the medicine to the telemedicine approach. Before, experts are not inclined to adopt this. However, due to the current situation—pandemic, they considered this option to bring their services to their patients.
Be Proactive In Reaching Your Customers
Businesses should not stop with just shifting to digital. Instead, you should also be proactive. Do not just sit there and wait for leads to approach you. It would help if you came up with the aptest strategy to reach your customers in terms of lead generation on all channels.
You may go with inbound lead generation through PPC ads, social media, and search engine marketing or outbound lead generation through direct mail, email marketing, and cold calls.
Draft Ways To Serve The Greater Good
Do not be so focused on regaining your sales. It will come in naturally and as smoothly as possible if your audience sees that you genuinely care for them. How do you do that?
The most effective way to go about this is to study the needs of society thoroughly. Understand their struggles and pinpoint their problems to integrate the solutions to your new business approach.
For instance, people’s pain point nowadays is the fear of getting COVID-19. That’s why they are very particular when it comes to hygiene and safety measures. What you can do is to understand this particular pain point and see where you can come in.
One strategy for restaurants, for example, is to redesign their space. You may come up with a layout where your customers are 2 meters away from each other. You may also place hand sanitizers in every opening to ensure that everyone’s free from the virus.
These simple efforts will send a message to your audience that you care.
Study Innovations
With the presence of the new normal, more and more people are coming up with practical innovations to adapt. As a company owner, your role is to study the latest changes around you and determine whether this applies to your business.
Keep in mind that you do not have to stick to the exact model. You may also modify it so that it will tailor-fit to your specific business goal.
COVID-19 has forced everyone to modify their lifestyle, and businesses are part of this. The good thing about this scenario is that there is still space to adjust and adapt to the new normal. Do not be afraid to take the risk since this is what is needed right now.
For your business to survive today’s condition, you have to ensure that you are also going or leading the pace brought about by the new normal. It is the main secret in thriving in the future.
COVID-19 has changed the way we do things today. May it be in your personal life to how businesses run their operations. The new normal forced businessmen to come up with the best strategies for saving their companies in this global pandemic.
“Many studies have linked financial distress to poorer mental health. The more you stress about money, the harder it may be to manage your psychological well-being—and vice versa,” Amy Morin, LCSW, shares.
Experts revealed, however, that stressing won’t be able to keep your businesses afloat. Business people should try their best to focus on the remedies instead of dwelling on their problems. One way to go about this is through the shift from offline to online — and remember that veteran cybersecurity is a must when it comes to digital business. Here are the reasons why you should adapt to this strategy.
Remain Relevant
The digital approach is five times faster than traditional ones. Believe it or not, not going digital will drown you in this fast-moving world.
More and more companies are now maximizing their marketing techniques based on what’s hot on the internet. Businesses can leverage hashtags and trends as opportunities. You should have a quick wit and a creative digital effort to target the most number of people.
Swaying with your consumers’ likes will bring timely exposure to your company. In short, you will remain relevant.
Ability To Shift To The Work From Home Setup
As an employer, the safety of your employees should be your number one priority. Where will your business land if you don’t have your workers behind, right?
The presence of coronavirus pushed the concept of work-from-home. This strategy helped to halt the spread of the virus. Although some employers were against this concept, many are now transitioning to this kind of setup.
They realized that this approach would lower their operational costs by renting fewer offices and minimizing electricity and water charges. It is also a win for your employees since it leads to reduced transportation expenses.
Presence Of Non-Contact Services And Delivery
A lot of individuals now fear to go out of their house, even if shopping for essentials. They are scared of this health threat since there is a higher risk of acquiring the virus outside. Therefore, more and more people are now opting to purchase in online stores since it’s safer and more accessible.
This trend started with food delivery services. Due to the lockdown and the fear, food deliveries improved their game by enrolling more restaurants into their app. This way, customers won’t have to go out of their houses just to put food on their table. This approach has been a success amid the pandemic.
Following their success, the majority of businesses shifted to this strategy as well. Groceries and supermarkets expanded their service out of their counters by aiding their customers through their deliveries. Companies outside the food and beverage industry are adapting to this trend as well.
Provide Remote Learning
Consumers spend most of their time inside their homes, and most are now getting bored. Yes, they have their movies and games to keep them entertained, but many individuals are getting sick of this. Believe it or not, many are now craving to learn and to sustain your brand, and you should be able to heed to this call.
Collect Key Analytics
For you to be able to come up with the best business strategies, you should be able to know your customers’ demographics well. And what’s the way to do this? By getting these data through your online platforms.
Consumer analytics allow your company to tailor your content, continuously understand the trends, and engage with them appropriately. Without detailed insight, businesses will most likely make detrimental strategy errors. Getting into these pitfalls will cost you a lot.
Set Up Virtual Events
Some industries rely on their brand events to be able to market their products and services well. This approach has now become impossible with the implementation of social distancing and the prohibition of mass gatherings around the world. But the presence of digital platforms, virtual events are now possible.
What’s better is that you can reach more audiences with this type of gathering, giving you more opportunities to promote your products and services.
Going digital amid the coronavirus is the best way to go. Companies that won’t respond to these market changes will only lead to its downfall. Everything will be affected – from customer retention, market share, and, eventually, revenue generation.