Supporting the Elderly Through Grief and Loss
Team Epoch,
Grief is never easy but it can be more difficult for our elders due to their vulnerability because of various factors.
The World Health Organization (WHO) offers a profound insight into mental health, defining it as a "state of well-being in which the individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community."
This holistic view underscores the intricate interplay between mental well-being and various facets of life. Mental health disorders, spanning a broad spectrum, disrupt this equilibrium, affecting not only mood but also thinking patterns and behavior. These disorders present a significant challenge to individuals, impeding their capacity to navigate daily life effectively.
From depression and anxiety disorders to bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and substance use disorders, the array of mental health conditions showcases the diverse ways in which mental well-being can be compromised. These disorders vary in severity, ranging from mild disturbances to debilitating challenges that profoundly impact one's ability to function.
Recognizing the prevalence and complexity of these disorders is crucial. They not only affect the individual directly but also ripple through families and communities, influencing social dynamics and collective well-being.
Each mental health disorder has its own set of causes and symptoms, which can vary widely. Here's a brief overview:
Depression
Causes: Depression can stem from a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Imbalances in neurotransmitters such as serotonin and norepinephrine are also implicated.
Symptoms: Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, loss of interest or pleasure in activities, changes in appetite or weight, sleep disturbances, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of death or suicide.
Anxiety disorders
Causes: Anxiety disorders may result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and brain chemistry factors. Trauma, stress, and personality traits can also contribute.
Symptoms: Excessive worry, restlessness, irritability, muscle tension, difficulty concentrating, sleep disturbances, panic attacks, phobias, and obsessive-compulsive behaviors.
Bipolar disorder
Causes: Bipolar disorder is believed to involve genetic, biological, and environmental factors, with imbalances in neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin playing a role.
Symptoms: Periods of mania alternating with periods of depression, characterized by elevated mood, excessive energy, racing thoughts, risky behavior, and depressive symptoms.
Schizophrenia
Causes: The exact cause of schizophrenia remains unknown, but it likely involves a combination of genetic, brain chemistry, and environmental factors.
Symptoms: Hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking and speech, reduced expression of emotions, social withdrawal, and cognitive difficulties.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Causes: PTSD can develop following exposure to a traumatic event, with genetics, brain chemistry, and personality contributing factors.
Symptoms: Intrusive memories, flashbacks, avoidance of trauma reminders, heightened arousal, and negative changes in mood and cognition.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
Causes: OCD is thought to involve genetic, brain chemistry, and environmental factors, with abnormalities in serotonin levels playing a role.
Symptoms: Obsessions and compulsions aimed at reducing anxiety or preventing feared events.
Understanding the causes and symptoms of these mental health disorders is crucial for early recognition and intervention, ultimately leading to better outcomes and improved quality of life for individuals affected by these conditions.
By understanding mental health in its broader context and acknowledging the intricate challenges posed by mental health disorders, Epoch Elder Care paves the way for comprehensive approaches to support and intervention. In order to contribute to the comprehensive mental well-being of the elderly, we are partnering with Samvedna Care, a trusted mental health and well-being care services provider. Through combined expertise, education, and accessible mental health services, we strive to promote well-being, resilience, and meaningful participation in society for all elders.
The Epoch mental health well-being program adopts a person-centered approach, recognizing the unique needs and challenges of each individual. By focusing on psychological interventions, medical therapy, and fostering functional independence, safety, and preventive measures, the program aims to improve overall quality of life.
Central to the program are evidence-based interventions tailored to address the diverse needs of individuals experiencing mental health disorders. These interventions include:
Assessment and individualized care planning
Thorough assessment of each client's mental health needs, strengths, and goals.
Development of personalized care plans in collaboration with the individual and family, focusing on holistic well-being and recovery.
Psychotherapy and counseling services
Individual therapy sessions with qualified mental health professionals to address a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, and trauma.
Group therapy sessions to provide support, encouragement, and skill-building opportunities within a safe and supportive environment.
Psychiatric evaluation and medication management
Comprehensive psychiatric evaluations to assess the need for medication and develop tailored treatment plans.
Ongoing medication management and monitoring to ensure optimal effectiveness and minimize side effects, in collaboration with prescribing physicians.
Crisis intervention and support
24/7 crisis intervention services to provide immediate support and stabilization during times of acute distress or crisis.
Access to emergency mental health services for urgent assistance.
Family and caregiver support
Family therapy sessions to improve communication, strengthen relationships, and foster a supportive environment for recovery.
Education and support services for caregivers, providing resources, coping strategies, and respite care options.
Well-being promotion and prevention
Well- being programs promoting physical health, nutrition, exercise, and relaxation techniques as integral components of mental health recovery.
Prevention initiatives focused on early intervention, risk reduction, and resilience-building strategies to promote mental well-being across the lifespan.
Continuum of care and follow-up
Coordinated care coordination to facilitate smooth transitions between levels of care and ensure continuity of services.
Regular follow-up appointments and check-ins to monitor progress, adjust treatment plans as needed, and provide ongoing support throughout the recovery journey.
By offering a comprehensive array of services and supports, Epoch strives to empower individuals, families, and communities to overcome mental health challenges and thrive.
Have a look at the article on Mental Health below
The common signs and symptoms of mental disorders among the elderly tend to vary with the condition. In general, they may include but are not limited to, persistent feelings of sadness, excessive worry, memory problems, changes in appetite or sleep, feeling tired, feeling irritable, becoming withdrawn or avoiding social contacts, and neglecting personal hygiene. Other symptoms include unexplained physical symptoms, substance abuse, and confusion related to time or space. It is very important to recognise these in order to get the proper support for the elder.
If your elderly loved one exhibits persistent symptoms like depression, anxiety, memory loss, withdrawal from social activities, or confusion that affects everyday life, it is time to seek professional help. Sudden mood swings, behavioral changes, or sudden changes in health, such as lack of hygiene, unexplained pain, or substance use, also necessitate immediate attention from a healthcare professional.
Depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and substance dependency are common mental health disorders. Dementia is also common, although a neurologic disorder, often presents with psychological signs. Early intervention can really make all the difference in the quality of their lives.
Yes, elders with mental illness can recover or significantly improve with the correct treatment and care. Recovery involves therapy, medications, lifestyle changes, and social support. Many mental illnesses, such as depression or anxiety, may be well managed to lead to a better quality of life and general well-being.
Mental health issues among elderly people may have some genetic contribution, but generally, this is induced by the amalgam of different factors. Genetics might have a tendency to predispose them towards one or the other condition, such as depression or anxiety. However, environmental and life events, the health status of the body, and social support also determine the mental health status of older adults. This interplay needs to be understood for proper prevention and treatment.
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