The number of people with mental health concerns has been increasing in the United States, and people at this age are no exception. This has been especially pronounced as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Results from the National Poll on Healthy Aging found that up to two-thirds of adults 50 to 80 years of age had trouble with their mental health during the pandemic, including 1 in 4 with worsening anxiety and 1 in 5 with worsening depression.
Many people reaching midlife are facing new challenges related to their health or everyday living. Even if you don’t recognize it right away, this can affect your mental health.
Screening for mental health concerns in older adults is a relatively new recommendation in the medical field. Biggers says that it may not be on the radar for all doctors, so be sure to bring it up and be honest with your healthcare team about how you’re feeling.
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