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Engaging in healthy behaviors as we age can help ensure we experience the best quality of life possible. That also means taking care of our mental health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 20% of people 55 and older experience some type of mental health concern. The most common are anxiety, severe cognitive impairment and mood disorders, such as depression or bipolar disorder.
By engaging in regular physical activity, having a healthy diet, staying connected to the community and being informed of available resources, we can help to improve our mental health. With May being Mental Health Month, it is a great time to learn about resources available to support mental health.
Resources for older adults
There are numerous state and federal resources that can help us take care of our mental health.
Texas Resources • The Texas Health and Human Services Commission Adult Mental Health program provides information and resources to assist adults with mental health concerns. Resources include the Mental Health in Older Adults sheet, which provides guidance on preventing suicide among older adults.
• The HHSC Turn To campaign connects Texans with resources that promote behavioral health and healthy alternatives to substance use. The campaign›s Turn To Check-In is a five-minute questionnaire intended to help people understand what might be affecting their mental and behavioral health and provide detailed information about available resources and services.
• HHSC Texercise supports older Texans who want to set physical activity and nutrition goals — both of which contribute toward improving mental health.
• HHSC Age Well Live Well provides resources for individuals and communities to prepare for all aspects of aging, including how to stay connected, which helps improve our mental health. Use the Aging Well Resources Order Form and search “Social Engagement” in the category field.
• Mental Health Texas provides information and resources on mental health for all ages. Information is provided for a variety of populations, conditions and more.
Federal resources
• The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration is the federal agency that leads public health efforts to advance behavioral health, including information on and resources for improving mental health among older adults.
• The National Institute of Mental Health offers information and resources for mental health, including symptoms of mental disorders in older adults.
Hotlines
There are several hotlines available for those going through a mental health crisis:
• The 988 Suicide & Crisis Line is available 24/7 and provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. Call or text 988 to connect with a trained crisis counselor. Support is also available via live chat.
• The Veterans Crisis Line is a free, confidential resource for veterans of all ages and circumstances. Call 988 then press 1, text 838255, or chat online to connect with 24/7 support.
• The SAMHSA Disaster Distress Line Helpline provides immediate crisis counseling for people experiencing emotional distress related to any natural or human-caused disaster. The helpline is free, multilingual, confidential and available 24/7. Call or text 800-985-5990.
