The World Health Organization reports that approximately 14% of adults aged 60 and over live with a mental disorder. Oroville, CA, offers a blend of natural beauty, affordability, and a relaxed pace of life, but that doesn't mean it's a safe haven from mental health issues.
Mental health is a vital part of our overall well-being, no matter our age. However, for seniors, conversations around mental health can still feel taboo, uncomfortable, or misunderstood. This is due to the stigma surrounding it.
So what is stigma in mental health? In this article, we'll explore this question and look at what can be done to create a more understanding and supportive environment for seniors experiencing mental health challenges.
Stigma refers to negative attitudes, beliefs, or behaviors toward people who have mental health conditions. It often includes:
Such stigma is often deeply rooted in cultural or generational beliefs. There are two main types:
Public stigma is one held by the general public. It involves misconceptions or negative attitudes about mental illness. A typical example would be the belief that people with depression are "weak".
Self-stigma is when someone internalizes these beliefs. They often feel shame about their condition or are hesitant to seek help. Self-stigma is especially common in older generations who may have grown up in environments where mental health wasn't so openly discussed.
For today's seniors (many of whom were born in the 1940s-1970s), mental health was often not talked about openly. Emotional struggles were typically seen as private matters or signs of personal failure. That generational mindset continues to affect how many older adults view mental illness today.
Common examples of stigma among seniors include:
Aging and stigma don't go well together, and these can result in seniors suffering in silence even when help is available.
Mental health conditions can arise or intensify in later life due to things like:
Some common mental health issues that seniors suffer from include:
Left unaddressed, these conditions can worsen quality of life and even physical health. That's why reducing stigma is crucial.
Stigma doesn't just impact how people feel. It affects the care they receive and how they live. In seniors, mental health stigma can lead to:
The good news is that stigma can be challenged and changed. Seniors, caregivers, and communities can take powerful actions to reduce mental health stigma.
Start conversations about mental health with those around you. Sharing experiences (without fear or judgment) can help normalize emotional challenges.
Senior mental health education is key. Understanding that a mental illness is a medical condition and not a weakness helps break harmful myths.
Just as we treat physical conditions like high blood pressure and arthritis, we must ensure mental health conditions receive appropriate care. It can be a very good idea for someone with a mental health condition to see a behavioral health specialist, such as a:
Check in on your loved ones. A simple question like "How are you truly feeling?" can lead to meaningful conversations and support.
Avoid words like "crazy" or "nuts". Instead, use respectful and compassionate language that reflects understanding and dignity.
At Marbella Oroville, we believe that mental health is just as important as physical health. That's why our community fosters an environment of emotional support, dignity, and open conversation.
Our caregivers understand how to recognize signs of emotional distress and gently guide residents and families toward resources that can help. We offer:
Mental wellness in later life is vital, and no senior should feel alone in their emotional struggles. The team at Marbella Oroville is here to listen, support, and uplift every resident whenever they can.
They have the training and experience to help seniors with mental health issues, and can even offer guidance to families so they can better understand what their loved one is going through and how they can help.
So you're no longer asking "what is stigma in mental health?", but that doesn't mean the problem has been solved. Stigma still exists, but by fostering awareness, compassion, and a willingness to talk, you can do your part to help reduce this stigma. In the long run, this can benefit seniors everywhere who are struggling with mental health issues.
Marbella Oroville is a senior living community in Oroville, CA, that's dedicated to providing residents with the care and support they need. Our compassionate caregivers can provide personalized services to assist seniors with various mental and physical challenges, helping them to live happy and fulfilling lives in a comfortable environment.
Get in touch with our team now to schedule a tour of our vibrant community.