Staying connected is key to keeping depression at bay as you age.
As we age, personal and lifestyle changes can make us feel apart from others, increasing the risk of no longer being connected.
People we care about, either pass away or travel often. Our family and friends live in other towns. We start to have health issues, and we cannot do the same things we had done when we were younger.
These changes can increase the risk of depression.
But how do you keep the risk of depression at bay? First, write yourself a list of all those people you hold near and dear. Connections matter and having strong ties with friends, family or with the community can help. Have you written that list yet?
Next time you are feeling a little sad, or not sure what to do with yourself, take out your list. Better still, stick it on the fridge. Now let us play pin the tail on the donkey, there is no donkey and no tail, but I am sure you can understand the similarities. Close your eyes and point at the list, whoever you land on – give them a call. Connect with them. If they are close by invite them around for a coffee or go out to a cafe and have lunch.
Many organisations offer ways to stay connected with others, look for them in the local paper, ask your neighbour or local newsagent. Having a social connection provides you with support, security, happiness and purpose.
You may feel that you are not old enough to worry about this – and you could be correct, but what a great habit of getting into. For when you need those connections.
Having a talk with others about how you are feeling helps you and, who knows they may be feeling the same way. Just remember there are many organisations that you can talk to if you want to stay anonymous and you are feeling down. But at the end of the day, it is your family and friends that will understand more than anyone else and will appreciate you taking the time to reach out.
Living an active life and staying in contact with those we care about is important at any age, promoting good mental health. Start doing it now.
There are also a great many activities where you can meet people and enjoy a day out, click on the links below for more information:
Active and Healthy – Local Exercise Groups for Seniors
Community Services for Seniors Ipswich
60 and Better Healthy Ageing Program – Ipswich
There are a great many organisations who offer support and assistance to people suffering from depression, find the right help for you by clicking here: https://www.qld.gov.au/health/mental-health/help-lines/services
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