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Community Healthy Living Tips for Better Mental Health Seniors

7 Tips for Better Mental Health

Full Sonder article – 7 tips for Better Mental Health

Just like physical fitness, mental fitness requires regular effort. Benefits of looking after your mental health include:

  • Flexible thinking and problem-solving.
  • Managing everyday stress.
  • Feeling connected to others.
  • Resilience when things go wrong.

1. Get into life

Do things that are enjoyable and provide a sense of purpose.

Get involved in activities on your own terms to boost your confidence and provide opportunities to connect with others.

Frequent participation in enjoyable activities can also help you to establish a routine.

2. Learn new skills for tough times

“When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.” - Victor Frankl

Think and talk about how to handle tough times for now and in the future. Different strategies work for different people.

  • Do art, music or journaling - Express thoughts and feelings.
  • Practice mindfulness - Be in the here and now.
  • Spend time in nature - Experience sunlight, fresh air and connection.
  • Set small goals - And see them through.
  • Talk kindly to yourself -Treat yourself like a loved one.
  • Talk with others - A problem shared is a problem halved.

3. Create and maintain connections

Connecting with friends, family (including pets) and others in the community, is essential to mental health and wellbeing. We are hardwired to connect with others, it is good for us.

Loneliness is a health hazard. Seek out a community centre for ideas and opportunities to join activities, groups and networks.

4. Get enough sleep

Sleep is vital for your mental health. Develop a routine of regular winding down activities before bed and also in the morning.

A bedroom that is free of TV, devices and lights may help sleep to come more easily.

5. Stay active

Staying active is critical to physical health, mental agility and mood regulation.

Some suggestions include:

  • Dancing
  • Yoga
  • Cycling
  • Swimming
  • Gym workouts
  • Aerobics
  • Tai chi
  • Snooker
  • Walking

6. Eat well and drink water

Eating well fuels the body and energy levels and can improve a person’s mood, general health and wellbeing.

Seek out whole foods and change your variety frequently. Community hubs have meals available.

Good hydration supports clear thinking and concentration. Consuming water also provides benefits for your physical health.

7. Seek help

Stress can provoke other health issues. Seek help when you need it.

Where can I find support?

  • Sonder’s COVID & Your Wellbeing service
    We provide free support for older adults to help you stay connected, cope with new changes and look after your wellbeing. To find out more, call Sonder on (08) 8209 0700 and ask to speak to Rod, Mental Health Clinician.
  • Older Persons COVID-19 Support Line
    Call 1800 171 866 for information and support for senior Australians, their families and carers. Monday to Friday, except public holidays, from 8.30am to 6pm.
  • FriendLine
    For anyone who needs to reconnect or just wants a yarn, call (08) 7078 6229. Available 7 days a week from 10am to 8pm.

Remember

Research has shown there is no significant relationship between how much money a person makes and how happy they are.

This service is supported by funding from Adelaide Primary Health Network through the Australian Government’s PHN Program.