What Is Mental Health Stigma and How It Affects Older Adults?
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According to the National Council on Aging, nearly 15% of adults over age 50 have a mental health condition. Many people don't recognize or treat symptoms because of stigmas, leaving many cases unaccounted for.
When finding a home, prioritizing memory care and mental wellness is essential for an older adult. TerraBella Cramer Mountain -- located in Cramerton, NC -- is surrounded by the South Fork Catawba River, offering a serene lifestyle. Our community has welcoming neighbors and supportive staff to make caring for mental health easier.
Keep reading to learn the answer to the question "What is mental health stigma?" and avoid its negative effects.
What Is Mental Health Stigma?
If you find yourself asking, "What is mental health stigma?" -- you're not alone.
Whether you suffer from mental health conditions or not, understanding stigmas can be beneficial. Knowing about harmful stigmas can ensure you find help for concerns, but also support friends and family members. Stigmas can exacerbate mental health conditions, and without the right tools, they can increase.
Here are a few examples of mental health stigmas:
- Negative beliefs towards individuals with mental health conditions
- Discrimination and prejudice
- Internalized negative stereotypes
- Judgment of those who receive mental health care treatments
Spotting these stigmas and changing thought patterns is the best way to support yourself and others. TerraBella Cramer Mountain residents strive for a kind community where everyone feels safe.
How Do Negative Stigmas Impact Seniors?
Mental health stigmas are harmful to people of all ages, but seniors have a higher risk of negative impacts.
Often, negative mental health stigmas prevent people from seeking help when it's necessary. According to an article in BMC Geriatrics, one study found that less than 25% of adults over age 75 received mental health services over five years.
You must encourage and seek mental healthcare promptly to prevent increasing symptoms. Our team at TerraBella Cramer Mountain ensures a positive environment where you don't have to feel ashamed.
Suppressing feelings and delaying health treatment shows that stigmas could be harming health. Understanding the unhealthy coping strategies seniors use can help you identify when help is needed.
Strategies for Improving Mental Health in Cramerton
Cramerton, NC, is ideal for seniors who want to prioritize mental health. Not only does it offer a small-town feel, but it's close to the city and has plenty of activities.
TerraBella Cramer Mountain residents benefit from living with our built-in mental health supports. Our attentive staff and warm environment help ensure everyone feels accepted and supported. We have been serving the community for over 20 years and hope to continue offering our senior living options.
Take a look below to discover the best ways to overcome aging and stigmas related to mental health.
Participate in the Community
Talking with others, especially people with common interests or struggles, can offer reassurance. By making friends and socializing, you can help combat stigmas and overcome mental health concerns.
Here are a few ways you can connect with others in our TerraBella community:
- Spend time in shared spaces
- Join an exercise class
- Visit the river and local mountains with neighbors
- Attend community events (inside and outside of TerraBella)
Our community offers unique amenities that encourage residents to talk and spend time together. By changing up your routine and living in the moment with others, you'll spend less time overthinking mental health conditions.
Locate Local Mental Health Support for Seniors
The World Health Organization recently shared that social isolation and loneliness are the top risks. Since the signs can be difficult to detect in seniors, finding a strong team of healthcare providers is a must.
With increased senior awareness in Cramerton, the residents of TerraBella find comfort. Aside from living in an amenity-rich community, there are also plenty of healthcare providers in the Cramerton area. If you're getting care in Charlotte, you won't have to travel far for the doctor's office.
Be Kind to Yourself
Self-doubt and shame can take a toll on a person's mental and physical health. Regardless of which mental health conditions you suffer from, you must remain kind and patient with yourself.
Regarding senior emotional health, you must navigate life each day at a time. Some days are more difficult than others, where getting out of your mind can be a challenge. It's essential to surround yourself with kind people and an uplifting environment.
Our TerraBella community offers the ideal setting for those who want to prioritize their well-being. On our property, you'll discover various amenities that encourage self-help.
From the outdoor garden area to the library and tableside dining options, our residents can enjoy themselves. Conceirge and housekeeping services help lighten the load of TerraBella residents so that care is the main focus.
How Can Mental Health Stigmas Be Avoided?
The only way to get rid of stigmas related to mental health is to confront them. By having conversations and getting treatment, you'll gain a support system in the TerraBella community.
Here are a few ways to prevent stigmas and encourage a supportive community:
- Be mindful of your language
- Be honest about treatment
- Talk to others about your experiences
- Keep an open mind and listen
- Seek mental health support for seniors
Our team and your new neighbors in Cramerton can help you find peace by prioritizing your health. Working together will allow others a safe space to open up, and the cycle will continue upward!
Prioritize Mental Health at Cramer Mountain
Charlotte, NC, is a wonderful city to live in, but if you want to focus on health, Cramerton can be a better option. TerraBella is known for its National Certificate from the Alzheimer's Association for memory care.
Now that we've clarified, "What is mental health stigma?", it's time to make a difference. By supporting those with mental health conditions, you can enhance TerraBella Cramer Mountain.
Cramerton, NC, is a dynamic setting where health, happiness, and hope come together. If you're interested in our specialized brand of memory care or maintenance-free senior living, contact us today. You can call our team at (980) 313-4840 or complete our online form!