By Laura Lee Leathers
Recently, I asked the ladies in my Sunday school class, ages 71 to 93, the following question: Do you know what the number one mental health issue is for older adults? Their response: No idea. I didn’t know either. However, multiple websites list depression and anxiety at the top, then dementia.
Recognize the stressors
Why are older adults more susceptible to depression and anxiety? There are several factors, such as:
-the stress of caregiving
-chronic illness or disability
-loss of a loved one
-social isolation and/or loneliness
-certain medications
-unmet expectations
-finances
-a major move
In my Sunday school class, one lady shared that she spends her days doing various types of puzzles, reading, and if a family member or friend calls with an invitation to go somewhere, she quickly accepts. In my area, events for retirees are almost nil. However, in larger towns, bigger churches offer many ways for seniors to be involved.
If we can recognize the stressors in our lives, hopefully, we can take steps to avoid the slippery slope of depression. I have dealt with life’s disappointments (you probably have also) — unmet expectations that have led to depression. I call it “being in the pits.”
As I’ve aged, I have learned to be in the Word and pray. I ask the Lord to redirect my thoughts and help me fight negative emotions. For me, this means doing something creative, working outside, going for a walk, serving others, reading a great book, and enjoying fellowship with believers.
NOTE: Every person and situation is different. It’s essential to consider professional help if you are suffering from depression or any mental affliction.
Saturate your mind with scripture
King David dealt with depression (see Psalm 6:6-7, Psalm 31:9-14). Elijah, Job, Hannah, Naomi, and Jeremiah are other biblical examples. How did they deal it? They turned to and relied upon God. We must do the same. We also have the power of the Holy Spirit.
Fear can also impact our mental health. Paul told Timothy,
For God hath not given us the spirit of fear;
but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
– 2 Timothy 1:7, KJV
To have a “sound mind” means self-control (ESV) or discipline (NASB). We are to have sensible, rational thinking. People with healthy minds grasp who they are in Christ and rely on God’s wisdom and strength. Additional verses include Romans 12:2, 1 Peter 1:13, 2 Corinthians 10:3-5, and Philippians 4:6-8.
None of us knows when or if we will deal with depression, dementia, or Alzheimer’s. But for as long as we are able, we can saturate our minds with scripture, trust and obey it, and ask the Lord to give us a sound mind.
Laura Lee Leathers is a writer and speaker. Imagine Lois Lane, over 65, living on a farm. Her metropolis is the area of freelance writing. Her primary love interest is the Word of God. She digs for information, interviews fascinating people, offers a cup of biblical hospitali-tea, and encourages, and helps others with the how-to’s of life. Visit LauraLeeLeathers.com.