As you grow older, you may find yourself spending more time at home alone. Being lonely or socially isolated is not good for your mental health as it can lead to feelings of depression and anxiety including thoughts of suicide.
Suicide is one of the leading causes of death in the United States affecting people of all ages. According to the Centers for Disease Control, in 2020, suicide rates in the United States were highest among people 85 years of age and older (20.9 per 100,000). Males over the age of 85 showed the highest rate of suicide (52.0 per 100,000). Suicide is NOT the solution and many resources are available to help you resolve the challenges you face.
If you find yourself feeling depressed or having little to look forward to, you are urged to do one or more of the following:
Be physically active. No matter your health and physical abilities, you can gain a lot by staying active. Physical activity is not only good for your physical health, but your mental health as well. Next time you are feeling down or stressed, get up and start moving!
Participate in activities you enjoy. An active lifestyle is more than just exercise. It includes doing things that are meaningful to you and benefit your mind, spirit, and body. Even if you live in a rural area or have other restrictions, you can still find ways to do the activities you like.
Stay connected. People who participate in meaningful activities with others feel purpose and tend to live longer. For example, helping others through volunteering, video chatting with family and friends, adopting a pet, or joining a walking club are just a few ways to stay connected.
Get 7-9 hours of sleep each night. There are a variety of reasons why older people may not get enough sleep at night. Try following a regular sleep schedule, develop a bedtime routine or avoid napping during the day. If you continue to struggle, it may be time to see your doctor.
Eat a healthy, balanced diet. Older adults should try to eat foods that are packed with nutrients while limiting high calorie foods. Swapping out snacks and beverages with nutrient-rich alternatives can help you stay within a healthy calorie range.
Mental health challenges can be debilitating to your life. One of the best things you can do for yourself when going through a mental health issue is to talk to someone about it. Opening up is the first step to the healing process.
There are many resources available to help:
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 to for free and confidential support from trained clinicians 24/7. Or chat online at https://988lifeline.org/chat/.
- Veterans Crisis Line: Veterans, Service Members and their families can call 988 and Press 1 for free and confidential support 24/7. You can also text 838255 or chat online at https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/get-help-now/chat/.
- Farm and Rural Stress Hotline: 1-800-691-4336.
- Mental Health Services: To find a local mental health provider in your area, visit dss.sd.gov or call the South Dakota Treatment Resource Hotline at 1-800-920-4343. Financial assistance is available.
- Dakota at Home is South Dakota’s Aging and Disability Resource Center. Call 1-833-663-9673 for assistance in identifying and accessing public and private services within your community.
Visit: https://dakotaathome.org/
Categories: South Dakota, General, Rural Lifestyle