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Getting Help

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In recent years, you have probably heard more and more about depression, anxiety, and other mental health problems. You may know how common they are, and that they are diseases and not personality defects. And you may accept that.

Except when it's you that's having the problem.

It's hard to accept that you need help. But it's important to get it. Untreated mental health problems can reduce your quality of life. The damage can be both emotional and physical. In fact, depression may be a symptom of a physical problem. It is also linked to conditions like diabetes and heart disease. Depression can make it more difficult, and more costly, to treat these and other conditions. That makes it even more important to see your doctor.

Also, untreated depression can lead to suicide. Although adults 65 and over represent only 12 percent of the U.S. population, they make up 16 percent of suicides in the U.S. That's why it's important to get help right away if you or a loved one are experiencing mental health problems. Reach out. It's important that you talk someone — anyone. It could be a friend, family member, a religious leader, or your doctor. Talking to them may help you feel better, and they can help make sure you get treatment.

Additional Resources

Publications

1.   Women's Mental Health — This special section of womenshealth.gov provides information on taking care of your mental health throughout the different stages of your life. It also links to information on mental health for men, girls, and people with a chronic illness or disability.

   http://www.womenshealth.gov/mh/

2.   Resource Directory for Older People — This site lists resources for many different areas of interest to the elderly.

   http://www.nia.nih.gov/HealthInformation/ResourceDirectory.htm

3. Depression and Older Adults: What It Is and How to Get Help (Copyright © AAFP) — Sometimes when people feel sad, they say they are "depressed." But depression is more than just feeling sad. It's a medical illness. This fact sheet discusses depression in older adults and how older adults can seek help.

   http://familydoctor.org/online/famdocen/home/seniors/mental-health/588.printerview.html...

4. Retiring? Don't Worry, Be Happy (Copyright © AARP) — This article discusses some of the common stresses associated with retirement. It provides tips on handling finances and remaining socially, mentally, and physically active after retirement.

   http://www.aarp.org/health/staying_healthy/stress/a2004-10-08-retiring-happy.html...

5. The Role of the Geriatric Psychiatrist (Copyright © GMHF) — This publication explains what a geriatric psychiatrist is, who would visit one, and how they can help you or a loved one cope with aging and mental health concerns.

   http://www.gmhfonline.org/gmhf/consumer/factsheets/geriatric_psychiatrist.html

Organizations

1.   National Institute of Mental Health, NIH, HHS
2.   National Institute on Aging, NIH, HHS
3. AGS Foundation for Health in Aging
4. American Association of Retired Persons (AARP)

= Indicates Federal Resources

Content last updated March 5, 2009.