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Mentally healthy people have the ability to respond to others, to love and be loved, and to cope with others in give and take relationships.
There are many changes associated with aging -- health, work and social roles, including relationships with family and friends. Some changes are welcomed, some endured and others difficult to accept. Stress often accompanies change, but too much stress can upset mental health.
Other factors that can cause or contribute to mental health challenges include poor nutrition, physical health problems, alcohol consumption, prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, lack of exercise, persistent or extreme stress, or the lack of ability to deal with stress in general.
The American Psychiatric Association has identified more than 200 mental disorders that may leave a person feeling distressed and often unable to go about normal, daily activities. People with a mental disorder are at an increased risk of suffering, being disabled and dying. Getting proper mental health care can improve and extend life.
Mental health treatment can be extremely effective with older adults. For example, over 90 percent of older adults who are treated for depression improve.
Did you know?
n One in four people will sometime experience a mental health problem.
n Mental health can be affected by poor nutrition, alcohol, the lack of exercise, stress, illness, prescriptions and over-the-counter medicines.
n Older adults account for 25 percent of all suicides. Older men are more likely to commit suicide than older women.
n About 20 percent of people over age 60 have an alcohol problem.
n Only 15 percent of older adults have dementia, or forgetfulness and loss of orientation.
If you or someone you know needs help, please call:
n National Mental Health Association (NMWA), 1-800-969-NMHA.
n National Association for the Mentally Ill (NAMI) Helpline, 1-800-950-6264.
n The Center for Mental Health Services Information Line, 1-800-780-CMHS; or Nebraska Mental Health, (402) 479-5126.
n Nebraska Mental Health Consumer Help Line, 1-800-836-7660.
n Nebraska State Department of Aging, (402) 471-4617; or your local mental health office or community services.
Linda Ramsey is an Extension associate in the Hall County Extension Office.
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