A mental health condition refers to changes in a person’s thinking, feelings, and behaviors that are typically accompanied by distress and difficulties in daily functioning. Caring for someone with a mental health condition, such as depression or anxiety, can be a challenging task. However, it is important to know that there are resources and support available to assist you in your caregiving role.
It is crucial to recognize that help is accessible for both you and the individual you are caring for. Remember that you are not alone in this journey, and there are professionals and organizations ready to provide guidance and assistance. By seeking help and utilizing available resources, you can better support your loved one and yourself in managing their mental health condition.
I am in urgent need of support
If the person you are caring for requires immediate support, please reach out to one of the following helplines:
- Lifeline: 13 11 14
- MensLine Australia (for men of any age): 1300 789 978
- Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467
- Healthdirect Australia: 1800 022 222
These helplines are accessible to individuals in Australia at any time, day or night, and are either free or charged at the rate of a local call (additional charges may apply for calls made from mobile phones).
Is there a connection between ageing and depression?
Elderly individuals who lack strong social connections and support are at risk of developing mental health conditions, such as depression. Unfortunately, depression is often overlooked or misdiagnosed in older adults. Symptoms like sleep disturbances, memory issues, and difficulty concentrating are sometimes attributed to the aging process rather than being recognized as signs of depression. Additionally, depression can be challenging to diagnose in individuals with co-existing dementia.
Physical health issues can also contribute to depression in older adults. Loss of independence and dignity due to increased reliance on others for care can lead to feelings of depression.
It is important to note that various types of mental health conditions can affect older individuals. For more comprehensive resources and information, please visit the Head to Health website.
In what ways can I offer my support?
It is crucial to convey to the individual you are caring for that seeking help is not a sign of weakness. Engage in discussions with their doctor, nurse, or mental health professional regarding potential treatment options. In order to achieve a positive outcome from treatment, it is essential to:
- Establish a trusting relationship with a healthcare provider and collaborate to determine an appropriate course of treatment
- Identify and address any contributing factors to the mental health condition
- Commit to continuing treatment for as long as necessary
Obtain written consent from the person you are caring for before communicating with their healthcare provider. Consult with health professionals to determine the most effective approach. For additional guidance on communicating with healthcare professionals, Carer Gateway offers valuable resources.
How can one determine the appropriate time for professional help?
The individual you are caring for may feel hesitant to seek assistance, possibly due to feelings of embarrassment. They may not even be aware that they are experiencing a mental health condition, instead focusing on physical symptoms like headaches or chest pain. These symptoms are commonly associated with anxiety and other mental health issues.
It is crucial to have any new physical symptoms evaluated by a medical professional. If someone is experiencing chest pain, it is important to seek medical advice to rule out any potential heart problems.
In cases where symptoms are severe, rapidly worsening, or lasting longer than 10 minutes, it is imperative to call emergency services immediately by dialing 000 and requesting an ambulance. If you are unable to connect to emergency services using 000 on your mobile device, try dialing 112 as an alternative.
What options for treatment are currently accessible?
When caring for an older individual with a mental health condition, it is important to note that the treatment they receive will be similar to that of any other age group. The type of treatment they receive will depend on their specific symptoms and may include a variety of approaches.
These approaches may include implementing:
- healthy lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise and proper nutrition.
- counseling may be utilized to help the individual address practical problems, conflicts, and gain a better understanding of the reasons behind their illness
- psychological interventions may also be employed to help the individual understand their thoughts, behavior, and relationships with others.
- medications may be prescribed to reduce or eliminate symptoms such as feelings of depression, restore normal sleep patterns and appetite, and alleviate anxiety. It is important to note that medications may take time to have a positive effect, with individuals typically beginning to feel better within six weeks of starting treatment.
Support organisations
Support groups led by individuals who have personally navigated mental health challenges and established effective support systems are readily accessible. These groups encompass self-help, mutual support, and mental health consumer organizations.
Cultivating and maintaining strong friendships is crucial for individuals managing mental health conditions. It is essential to empower your loved one to engage with family, friends, and community groups in their local area. Guard against feelings of isolation and encourage social connections to promote overall well-being.
Support and available resources
There are numerous valuable online resources available to provide more information about mental health conditions and the support that is accessible:
- Beyond Blue: An independent, not-for-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness and understanding of depression and anxiety in Australia
- dNet: A comprehensive resource offering information, and assistance in connecting with professionals, treatments, and tools across Australia. It also provides peer support through message boards and chat rooms.
- BluePages: A source of information on treatments for depression
- Black Dog Institute: A leading organization in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder.
- Mental Help Net: A platform for mental health and wellness education and advocacy.
- SANE Australia: A national charity that assists all Australians affected by mental illness in improving their quality of life.
- Healthy Health Foundation: An organization comprised of professionals, individuals with mental health conditions, their families, related organizations, and members of the public.
- Lifeline: An organization that offers access to crisis support, suicide prevention, and mental health support services.
These resources serve as valuable tools for individuals seeking information, support, and guidance in managing mental health conditions.