Older Adults and Mental Health

Key Takeaways

• Feelings of depression or severe anxiety are not typical as we grow older. Rather, they are signs of a treatable medical condition.
• Bereavement, chronic illness, and caregiving pressures can all contribute to mental health disorders in older adults.
• Learn about symptoms of two of the most common mental illnesses in older people: anxiety and depression.

We all know good mental health is an important part of our quality of life. But barriers still exist when it comes to getting support and treatment for mental illness.How common is mental illness? One in five Americans will experience it in their lifetime.¹ For older adults, that figure is one in four. Given the nation’s large aging population, the number of older adults with mental health disorders is expected to double by the year 2030.²Despite being so widespread, mental illness remains seriously underdiagnosed and undertreated in older people. In fact, two-thirds of older adults with mental health problems do not receive the treatment they need.²

Why is there a lack of mental health support for older adults?

If mental illness is such a pressing issue in older Americans, why do so many people remain undiagnosed and untreated? Part of the problem may be negative stereotypes about aging—the idea that it’s “normal” for people to grow lonelier or more unhappy as they age. But, in fact, feelings of depression or excessive anxiety are not a normal part of growing older. They’re signs of treatable medical conditions, just like diabetes or hypertension.There is also a social stigma (negative beliefs and misconceptions) surrounding mental health issues today. Lack of awareness and education about mental health can lead to discrimination against people with mental health problems, making them less likely to seek help and treatment.Lastly, some older adults face practical barriers when it comes to getting mental health services. Living in a rural area or lacking transportation to and from provider visits can make it difficult for many people to get the care they need.

Why is mental health an issue in older adults?

Older adults face a higher risk for mental health problems due to a number of reasons. These include:

• Loss of a loved one
• Loneliness and/or social isolation
• Chronic illness or disability
• Changes brought on by retirement
• Certain medications
• Alcohol use or abuse
• Stress of caregiving

What is the most common mental health problem for older adults?Anxiety and depression are among the most common mental health disorders affecting older adults.

Anxiety: Symptoms and treatment

Severe anxiety that disrupts your daily functioning can lead to a lower quality of life and even physical health problems. Between 3% and 14% of older adults meet the criteria for an anxiety disorder.³Symptoms of anxiety in older adults include:

• Feelings of excessive nervousness or fear
• Compulsive, repeated safety checks
• Avoiding social situations
• Avoiding routine activities
• Physical signs like shallow breathing, sweating, trembling, chest pains, headaches, gastrointestinal problems

Common anxiety disorders include:

• Panic disorder: Characterized by panic attacks or sudden feelings of terror that strike repeatedly
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder: Suffering from repetitive, unwanted thoughts or rituals
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): Nightmares, depression, and other persistent symptoms after a traumatic event
• Phobias: Extreme fear of something that poses little real danger
• Generalized anxiety disorder: Chronic, exaggerated worry about everyday activities

Anxiety is highly treatable through therapy, medication, or a combination of both. Treatment plans and needs vary for each person.

Depression: Symptoms and treatment

Depression is a mood disorder defined by feelings of intense sadness and despair that last for weeks or even months at a time. More than 2 million Americans age 65 and older suffer from some form of depression,⁴ with many also experiencing anxiety.Common symptoms of depression include:

• Loss of pleasure in everyday activities
• Poor sleep
• Rapid weight gain or loss
• Low energy
• Lack of ability to focus

Depression can severely limit one’s quality of life and ability to take care of themselves. It can also lead to physical health problems, such as slower recovery from physical illness. In addition, depressed people are at a greater risk for suicidal thoughts and actions.Like anxiety, depression is a very treatable disorder, with medication and psychotherapy—or a mix of the two—being the main avenues of treatment.

Take a mental health screening

If you’re experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression, you’re not alone; mental health disorders affect millions of older Americans. Help is available, and healing is possible. The earlier you identify and treat your symptoms, the faster you’ll be able to feel better.Start by taking an online screening from Mental Health America. This is a free, anonymous, and 100% confidential way to learn about your personal mental health. While this tool is not the same as an official diagnosis, it can help you start a conversation with your health care provider or loved ones.If you or someone you know is in crisis and would like to talk to a trained counselor, dial or text 988 from your phone to reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. This service is free, confidential, and available to anyone in the U.S. 24/7.Why is it important to take care of our mental health as we age?

As people age, they may experience certain life changes that impact their mental health, such as coping with a serious illness or losing a loved one. Although many people will adjust to these life changes, some may experience feelings of grief, social isolation, or loneliness. When these feelings persist, they can lead to mental illnesses, such as depression and anxiety.Mental health is important at every stage of life. Effective treatment options are available to help older adults manage their mental health and improve their quality of life. Recognizing the signs and seeing a health care provider are the first steps to getting treatment.

What are symptoms of mental disorders in older adults?

• Noticeable changes in mood, energy level, or appetite
• Feeling flat or having trouble feeling positive emotions
• Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
• Difficulty concentrating, feeling restless, or on edge
• Increased worry or feeling stressed
• Anger, irritability, or aggressiveness
• Ongoing headaches, digestive issues, or pain
• Misuse of alcohol or drugs
• Sadness or hopelessness
• Thoughts of death or suicide or suicide attempts
• Engaging in high-risk activities
• Obsessive thinking or compulsive behavior
• Thoughts or behaviors that interfere with work, family, or social life
• Engaging in thinking or behavior that is concerning to others
• Seeing, hearing, and feeling things that other people do not see, hear, or feel

Mental disorders can be treated: A primary care provider is a good place to start if you're looking for help. They can refer you to a qualified mental health professional, such as a psychologist, psychiatrist, or clinical social worker, who can help you figure out next steps. Find tips for talking with a health care provider about your mental health.You can learn more about getting help on the NIMH website. You can also learn about finding support  and locating mental health services in your area on the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) website.