Talking about Mental Health: Impact on Seniors

Depression is something that affects people of all ages, and that’s especially true for the senior population.

“Often times those happy golden years are not so happy and golden,” explains Cari Brastad, a registered nurse at Trillium Woods in Plymouth. “Our seniors are struggling with health issues, pain and changes in life overall.”

Brastad says one of the best ways seniors can treat depression is by limiting social isolation and developing a network of friends.

“Being isolated can only make things worse for people,” says Brastad. “The more they reach out, whether it’s to their doctor, to any psychology kind of services or reaching out to their own friends and family, it’s huge.”

Experts say depression affects about six million Americans age 65 and older. The causes of depression in seniors ranges from losing loved ones to physical changes such as hearing and vision loss.

Want to hear more about Mental Health? Watch “The Silent Struggle: Talking about Mental Health” where we discuss how cities, schools and everyday people are tackling the a topic that people haven’t talked about before.

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NAMI Minnesota provides free classes and information for crisis responders, medical and mental health professionals and the general community. If you are concerned about someone or are having thoughts of suicide yourself, call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or **CRISIS, or text MN to 741741.

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