Mental Health
Imagine a scenario where you’re unable to make decisions about your mental healthcare, perhaps due to a sudden mental health crisis. Who would speak for you? What treatments would you want or not want? That’s where the Georgia Psychiatric Advance Directive (PAD) comes into play. It’s like having a roadmap for your mental health treatment…
Read MoreSeptember is National Suicide Prevention month and we want to help raise awareness about some concerning issues among individuals aged 65 and older. While older adults comprise just 12% of the population, they make up approximately 18% of suicides. This age group faces unique challenges and risk factors that can contribute to suicidal thoughts and…
Read MoreRecently a new and important bill was signed into law. Georgia House Bill 752, also known as the Georgia Psychiatric Advance Directive (PAD), is a forward-thinking law that empowers individuals to take control of their lives and health care through proactive decision-making to address their unique mental health needs and situations. Why is this important?…
Read MoreMany of us picture the golden years as a time for travel, finding hobbies, and spending time with family and friends. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case for many seniors. Substance abuse among older adults is often referred to as an ‘Invisible Epidemic’. Alcohol and prescription drug abuse among adults 60 and older is one of…
Read MoreFrom the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the evidence shows that seniors are more vulnerable to catching the virus and to the ensuing deadly complications. Why is that? What is it that makes seniors more likely to contract COVID-19? A recent article in The Washington Post suggests that our bodies response to infection changes…
Read MoreMany older adults find themselves in this cycle of compounded loss, but it should never be considered the norm for this stage of life.Loneliness and social isolation are now believed to be as dangerous to our health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, and surpass the mortality risks of obesity. A 2017 SCAN survey of 1,000 older…
Read MoreDr. Sarah Yarry, licensed clinical psychologist specializing in gerontology, reports: “Often in older adults, when they’re depressed, you don’t see high levels of crying and sadness you might see in a younger adult; you see it more often as withdrawal – apathy, hopelessness, loss of appetite and interest.” Depression is correlated with a higher risk…
Read MoreThe United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) reports that “posttraumatic stress symptoms can emerge or re-emerge late in life,” as age-related factors affect preexisting mental health issues or lead to the development of new ones. Up to 15% of older adults may experience and struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, and reasons for…
Read MoreAnxiety is one of the most common mental illnesses. Take the steps to protect your mental health and your wellbeing.
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