• October 21, 2024
• Uncategorized
• Jeffrey Aviles

Anxiety doesn’t discriminate. It can impact anyone at any age. According to the National Council on Aging, anywhere from 10% to 20% of those 65 and older in the United States deal with anxiety. 

Unfortunately, it often goes undiagnosed. 

Older adults often have a harder time getting help for anxiety for a variety of reasons. We’ll cover a few of them here. But if you or someone you know is dealing with the symptoms of anxiety, don’t let age be a factor in getting help. Anxiety is often very manageable, but not something you should have to deal with on your own. 

Misinterpreting Symptoms

There’s no question that you’re at a greater risk of certain health issues as you grow older. Some people like to joke about things like more frequent backaches or forgetting things here and there because they’re aging. 

But, it’s important to recognize the symptoms of anxiety so you don’t misinterpret them as normal signs of aging. Things like excessive worry, difficulty sleeping, or even irritability are all common signs of anxiety that you might try to “brush off” as something else. If your fear or worries are impacting your quality of life, consider it a major red flag that should be addressed as soon as possible. 

Mental Health Stigma

Some older adults might still believe that mental health issues are a sign of weakness. This can be especially problematic for older men. Many people in the baby boomer generation hold a great sense of pride and determination. Many people in general don’t want to be viewed as weak, or that they’ve failed somehow. 

Please realize that mental health issues of any kind don’t make you weak. In fact, recognizing your symptoms and reaching out for help makes you stronger and more in control. The more older adults who get the help they need, the weaker the stigma surrounding mental health for this generation will become. 

Lack of Awareness

Because of the stigma surrounding mental health in older generations, many people 65 and older simply haven’t taken the time to learn about issues like anxiety. That’s why it’s so easy to misinterpret symptoms or think something else is wrong. 

It is also not uncommon for older adults to not know where to turn for help. If you’re not sure where or how to access mental health help, reach out to a family member or friend. Or, there may be local groups that can provide you with resources. 

Losing Independence

If you’re someone who often prides themselves on being strong and independent, you might think that an issue like anxiety might cause you to lose some of that independence, especially if it’s discussed with a doctor. 

It’s true that anxiety can wreak havoc on your life. It can make you feel like you’re not in control. It can isolate you from friends, family, and things you typically enjoy. 

But getting treated for anxiety will absolutely not hinder your independence. In fact, talking with a mental health professional can help you feel more empowered. Putting together a plan to manage your symptoms and take charge of your mental health can offer a renewed sense of independence that will make you feel much better about your future. 

If you’re someone who has been dealing with symptoms of anxiety for some time, please don’t hesitate to reach out for help. If you’re worried about starting this healing journey alone, reach out to a friend or family member who can be an advocate for you. We’re happy to answer any questions you might have and work with you every step of the way to combat anxiety and take control of your life again.