now is the time for canadians in their golden years to nurture their mind-body connection
coming through two years of unprecedented new stresses, now is an opportunity for older canadians to take a new look at their mindset and how it affects their physical health
5 minute read
this story is sponsored by
a canadian biopharmaceutical company
this story was created by content works, postmedia’s commercial content division, on behalf of a client.
all of us who’ve lived through the past 2 years know how hard it’s been. everyone’s experience has been different – and how we talk about the way we feel is very personal. some are reluctant to even use the term ‘mental health’. others are very open – and even public – in talking about grappling with depression, isolation or anxiety, to name a few. but there’s no question that the social effects of the covid-19 pandemic have been significant for people everywhere, no matter your age or background. one british paper, which reviewed research from 14 different studies, found that before the pandemic about 4% of the population had diagnosed depression. during lockdown, that number was a startling 32%. similarly, rates of anxiety jumped from 5% to 31%.
perhaps there’s never been a more important time for us to collectively think about our mental health. yet “mental health” is still sometimes thought of as more of a young person’s issue. in fact, the american psychological association reported in october 2021 that only 45% of those between 15 and 21 reported having “very good” or “excellent” mental health. that number was 70% for those 58-76, and 74% for those 77 and older. when you read those numbers, you might have a gut reaction as to why. maybe it’s something to do with social media, or concern about the environment.
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in that way, emerging from the pandemic is a golden opportunity for older canadians. people are broaching the subject of mental health as part of everyday conversation. and we can’t just assume the feelings we’ve had will just go away even if life otherwise starts to feel normal again.
mature adults can experience isolation and lonliness even under normal circumstances, let alone when pandemic restrictions have limited socializing for so long. if these feelings are persistent, it’s crucial to not dismiss them outright. especially if they’re accompanied by unusual tirendness or apathy, a sense of emptiness, trouble concentrating, or other symptoms of depression. it’s always best to have a conversation with a doctor if you think your symptoms might be depression or another serious mental health issue.
for older canadians who care about their physical health, we must understand the impact of mental health
the idea of a “mind-body” connection has been around for a long time. it’s the concept that the health of our bodies and the health of our minds have a strong connection. but since the turn of the century, there’s been more and more evidence that mental health struggles predispose people to physical health problems. for example, depression is strongly associated with coronary artery disease.and chronic, repeated stress – as some of us have experienced since the start of the pandemic – creates a long-term stress response, increasing heart rate and blood pressure. disruption of stress hormones can disrupt a number of biological systems.
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with so much renewed conversation about the state of our mental wellbeing, and a clearer scientific understanding than ever before about the mind-body connection, now is also a chance for canadians to shake up their routines for the betterment of their mental and physical health.
there are countless ways – new and old – that mature adults are finding to improve the wellbeing of their minds and bodies. and sometimes both.
navigating the mind-body connection: how older canadians are focusing their minds and invigorating their bodies
with the seemingly endless stream of advice on how to feel better mentally and physically, it’s crucial to find what works for you. what works for someone else might not resonate with you. of course, if you feel in a rut, you should try something new – you might surprise yourself and others.
plan more time to spend with friends and family
there’s clear evidence that spending time with our loved ones and social support networks can improve our moods and promote mental wellbeing. consider scheduling weekly, bi-weekly or monthly dates with your family or friends. by having a regular day and time scheduled, you’ll be less likely to have other obligations cancel your plans. and you’ll have something to look forward to on your social calendar.
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exercise in a way that actually works for you
we all know how important it is for our health to exercise. but even knowing that there is a clear connection between exercise and mental health, many of us can’t make it work. but just a short spurt of exercise has long been known to release endorphins, the “feel good hormone”, into the body. a trick to exercising and sticking to it is to find something that you enjoy. the gym is great. but it’s not for everyone. some older canadians are enjoying youtube tutorials and apps made specifically for them. and if even that doesn’t work, try finding ways of turning your existing passions into light exercise. for example, if you’re interested in photography, take a walking trip twice a week to explore some new subjects. if you’re a reader, audiobooks can be a great motivation to get out and walk. get books you’re really looking forward to and save them for only when you’re walking. it’s a great way to motivate you to get out the door – and maybe even take a scenic route.
do more things that bring you joy
too often we put off things we know we enjoy. but if you believe in the importance of the mind-body connection, doing the things that make you happy is a vital part of your entire health. carve out a dedicated time where you do one of the small things that makes you happy. plan them regularly and commit to them. doing things just for you isn’t selfish. it’s taking care of your mental health. things as small as going out to a restaurant you love or taking the time to really listen to a favourite album or piece of music can really add up.
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know when to consult a professional about your mental health
it’s understandable that feeling depressed – or even very depressed – might seem like just another challenge for you to overcome. but if you’re having persistent, negative mood, outlook, anxiety, or don’t enjoy the things you used to, it may be time to speak to a doctor. there’s a stereotype that older adults don’t like to ask for help about their mental health. but they do know how to stand up for themselves and work towards the future they want. coming out of the past two years, there’s never been a better opportunity to do just that.
this story was created by content works, postmedia’s commercial content division, on behalf of a canadian healthcare company.
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