Senior Guide to Mental Health

Whenever you think you might need it

Your senior years are a wonderful time. Still, social isolation, grief after losing close friends, and other factors can affect the way you think and feel. You don’t have to go it alone.

Your health plan includes behavioral health benefits, like counseling and therapy, so you can strengthen your mental health at any age. Best of all, you only pay your plan deductible, copay or coinsurance when you receive care in network. Your plan also offers a variety of resources that are completely free. We provide all the resources you need to maintain your mental well-being.

Your partner in seeking emotional well-being

If you're looking for an easy way to find counseling for older adults in Michigan, make an appointment with your PCP for a list of references. They may also have other options for stress management and maintaining mental well-being. 

Don’t have a PCP? You can log in to your Blue Cross member account to find one.

Log in now

See how you can reduce universal stigma on mental health 

Education is always a good place to start when it comes to stigma. Know the facts, and advocate for yourself and others when opportunities come up. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Be aware of your attitude and behavior. Examine your own judgmental thinking that may have been planted or reinforced by society. 
 
Always put thought into your words. What you say can perpetuate stigma, even if you don’t mean to. 

Talk to your friends and family about therapy and be supportive of their decisions to get support.

Finding ways to stay social can help you stay healthy

Social isolation can pose a threat to both physical and mental health for anyone, but especially for seniors. Limited human contact is even linked to many chronic conditions including depression, heart disease and high blood pressure.³  Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan believes in the healing power of human connection, even when it may feel tough to do so. Here are a few suggestions for helping to cope with isolation or loneliness. 

• Ask about grief support for seniors
• Invite a friend to go on a walk or have a video chat
  
• Sign up for an online course or enthusiast group
  
• Try an online group exercise program like SilverSneakers
  

Being there for a loved one can be very rewarding. Still, studies have shown higher levels of stress in caregivers versus non-caregivers. This stress can lead to anxiety, depression or an increased intake of alcohol or other substances .⁴

Here are just a few ways you can take care of yourself while looking after a loved one:

• Seek caregiver education  
• Join a local support group 
• Eat healthy and stay active  
• Ask for help when you need it 
• Make time for friends and fun