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It's Mental Health Month 2018

May 23, 2018

BrightStar Care Supports Mental Health Awareness in Richmond

May Is Mental Health Month in Richmond and a time to spread the word that mental health affects Seniors

The Richmond Daily News reports that nearly everyone at some point in their lives experiences mental mental_health2-1068x712.pnghealth challenges — either by having mental-health problems themselves, or seeing mental illness among their friends, loved ones and/or in the community.

Mental Health America (MHA) leads the observance of this by reaching millions of people through the media, local events and screenings.  BrightStar Care of Richmond joins them in spreading the word that mental health is something everyone should care about, especially seniors.  We want to help seniors understand mental illnesses are both common and treatable.  We care for seniors and know that aging can have a profound impact on mental health.  Isolation and physical decline can lead to depression and sometimes suicide in older adults.

"For the ever-growing older population of America, particularly in rural areas, the problem can be profound, says Lacey Sullenger, licensed practical nurse and program director of Senior Life Solutions at Ray County Memorial Hospital. “Symptoms of depression and anxiety often go unnoticed or overlooked, and even the person experiencing these feelings may think this is a normal part of aging,” she says.

“Older adults need to know that they don’t have to feel this way, that it doesn’t have to be their ‘norm’,” she adds. According to a recent study by MHA, she notes, about 58 percent of people age 65 and older believe it is “normal” for people to get depressed as they grow older.

BrightStar Care of Richmond provides support for seniors struggling with mental health issues.  To learn how we help - click here:  

Source:  https://www.Richmond-dailynews.com/2018/05/living-50-plus-rcmh-program-offers-mental-health-care-for-seniors/S