HOW TO TAKE CHARGE OF MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS

HOW TO TAKE CHARGE OF MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS

According the National Council on Aging, less than 4 of older adults with mental illness get any type of mental health care. If you or someone you love is expressing problems, it’s important to realize that mental health problems are not just a part of the aging process; they can (and should) be treated.

While some people go through life managing a chronic mental illness, mental health problems can also arise in later years. These issues can be in response to the death of a loved one, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, cancer, arthritis, diabetes or even some medications.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Steps

1 Step One

Ask yourself if you (or a loved one) experience a recent major-life change? This could be a change in family or friendships, changes in living situations, even changes in your body. All of these possibilities need to be considered when seeking treatment.

2 Step Two

Be aware of symptoms, including:
Sadness that lasts longer than 2 weeks.
Consistent worries about issues such as money, family, and health
Consistent trouble sleeping or concentrating.
Frequent trouble remembering things or feeling confused in familiar places.
Having more than one alcoholic drink a day or taking more medication than prescribed.

3 Step Three

Seek help from a mental health care professional immediately if you or a loved one is experiencing one or more of these symptoms. You can also call the National Mental Health Association at 1-800-969-6642 to get a referral for a local treatment.

Resources

Another source for information is the Older Women’s League Website

Members Comments

Find this article at: http://www.ehow.com/how_2141015_change-mental-health-matter...