According to the Centers for Disease Control’s 2021 mental health report, 20% of those aged 55 years and older experience some sort of mental health condition. According to many experts, depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders are some of the most common mental health concerns that seniors experience. When left untreated, these not only cause damage to the mind but also the body.
Thankfully, there are many ways that older adults can safeguard their mental health. Should you or any other seniors you know be dealing with any mental health struggles, here are some simple yet effective ways to address this:
1. Get enough deep sleep
Sleep is not just a chance to physically rest. It's also a period of mental healing. Evidence suggests that poor sleep hygiene results in heightened depression and anxiety in seniors. As such, try to take several naps a day and one long deep sleep in the evening. This allows the brain to flush out toxins and relax the system. If you’re having difficulty sleeping well due to health conditions, try natural sleep-inducing methods. These include drinking hot tea, avoiding gadgets, and sleeping in a cool and dimly lit room. These can trigger your body’s circadian rhythm and help put you to bed.