You probably hear the phrase “mental health” thrown around often, but what does it mean to you?
So often, people are judged based on behaviors and conditions they can’t control, which is why May has been recognized since 1949 as Mental Health Awareness Month. Join Delaware Court on our journey to #breakthestigma!
We’re here to say that you are not alone. In the last year especially, you may have noticed yourself feeling anxious or depressed due to self-isolation, stress caused by world events and the ongoing pandemic, or troubles with work, family, or healthcare. This can be especially true for seniors living independently or in a nursing facility like Delaware Court.
According to Rethink, about 1 in 5 adults in the US experience mental illness in a given year, yet 56% of adults in the US with a mental illness did not receive treatment. Whether that be due to the stigma surrounding mental illness, financial constraints, or personal reasons, it’s important to have resources at your side if you want help.
First, perform a quick self-check-up using some of these questions from the Avery Burton Foundation. Are you losing concentration? Losing sleep? Having personal relationship problems? Eating too much or too little? If you’re answering “yes” to these questions and it’s out of the ordinary for you, consider reaching out to a therapist or mental health professional. Here are some hotlines available to you:
- National Alliance on Mental Health: 1-800–950-6264, email: helpline@nami.org, nami.org/help
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 1-800-273-TALK (8255), 988lifeline.org
- SAMHSA’s National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357), samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline
The world is a brighter place with you in it! Don’t hesitate to talk to your loved ones or family doctor about your mental health. If you’re a senior struggling with mental illness, you might find this link helpful.
If you'd like to get more information about our nursing center or schedule a tour for your loved one, please call us at (740) 369-6400.
