Recently, there's been a transformation in how we view mental illness. Psychologists have realized that social pressure causes those with mental illness to hide it.
According to Verywell Mind, those with mental illness often mask their symptoms and hide their inner experiences from others. Masking is common among those living with anxiety, depression, or trauma.
Seniors here in Woodlands, TX, are particularly susceptible, as they come from a generation that didn't accept mental disorders. Talking about conditions like depression wasn't common, and those who did speak up often faced stigma.
Interested in learning more about breaking the stigma of mental health? Read on to learn more about emotional support for seniors.
Mental health stigma is a complex emotional process that affects individuals, their families, and also organizations and institutions in wider society. Here's how the three main types of mental health Stigma work:
No one is born knowing about mental health stigma; it's something you need to learn from other people. Societal stigma against mental health is when we see harmful attitudes reflected in our day-to-day interactions.
For example, think of the last time you saw mental illness depicted on TV. Often, they're harmful stereotypes that make those with mental illness look unstable, dangerous, or stupid.
When societal stigma is too pervasive, sometimes people internalize stigma. This means they accept harmful stereotypes as true. For those with mental illness, this negatively impacts self-image and makes it less likely they'll seek treatment.
When formal organizations like hospitals, workplaces, or schools have harmful views about mental health, we call it organizational stigma. This kind of stigma is hard to break because it requires change at the organizational level.
According to Manhattan Psychology Group, one of the main reasons people conceal mental struggles is that they fear negative judgment. Seniors who struggled with depression or anxiety in early life probably faced criticism or sometimes even punishment.
If you've ever tried to discuss these topics with an older person, they'll likely respond that they just didn't acknowledge struggles with mental health back when they were younger.
It used to be that people were told not to be emotionally open. Since mental health issues like depression or chronic stress are frequently confused with personality traits or aging, it's critical to have conversations with seniors and encourage them to open up.
Negative reactions were likely in both personal and professional life. So, not only did many seniors have to put on an act at home, but these experiences also meant seniors learned to conceal their feelings at work or school, too. Having to constantly downplay and hide symptoms can have some fairly serious psychological costs.
Breaking the stigma of mental health is incredibly important, as poor societal mental health awareness can cause further psychological problems. For example:
Stigma in aging is a serious problem for seniors. The key to future senior mental wellness will involve easing stigma and helping seniors express their true emotions and perspectives.
So, where do these harmful stereotypes about mental illness come from? It's mostly because older generations were taught not to talk about their feelings, and there is a lot of generational silence about mental health.
However, it's not just a problem with older generations; the way seniors are portrayed in modern media is also a contributing factor. Seniors are often shown as weak and confused. Many fear that by talking about their mental struggles, they're conforming to the stereotype and people will think less of them.
Seniors themselves may internalize these negative stereotypes, blame themselves for emotional problems, and believe it is too late to change or seek assistance. Also, they might not say anything because they don't want their loved ones to feel sorry for them.
Additionally, stigmatizing behaviors and attitudes can be reinforced by professionals and institutional perspectives on the issues in the healthcare industry. Unfortunately, medical professionals are occasionally taught using antiquated models of aging.
These harmful stereotypes can have a detrimental impact on caregivers and their families, as they fail to interpret mental distress correctly and instead see it as a distinct medical issue.
People may think that mental health problems inevitably degrade with age, and because of this, they aren't worth addressing. They might be too quick to resort to medication instead of direct emotional support.
These harmful attitudes mean senior support communities are invaluable. Independent living and well-being go hand in hand as helpful staff ensure seniors get the healthcare they need.
According to a study by Nancy Jacquelyn Pérez-Flores, breaking the stigma of mental health is all about awareness. By teaching seniors about how mental disorders and their treatments work, we can challenge harmful stereotypes and encourage people to think about mental illness in compassionate terms.
According to the study, people gain a better understanding of mental health by seeing how peers have benefited from treatments like medication or seeking help. This type of positive interaction can debunk harmful myths and encourage seniors to seek help when needed.
Breaking the stigma of mental health involves openly addressing harmful stereotypes and educating people, families, and organizations. When seniors feel safe enough to disclose their feelings, it results in better health outcomes and helps them live authentic, fulfilling lives.
Conservatory at Alden Bridge is proud to support mental health by removing the stigma surrounding it. Our supportive atmosphere, inclusive discussions, and strong community ties guarantee that seniors always feel heard and understood.
If you're ready to discover a supportive community, reach out today and schedule a tour of our independent living accommodations.
You'll learn how we encourage mental wellness and meaningful connections for yourself.