RENISHAW HILLS SHARES TIPS FOR MAINTAINING MENTAL HEALTH IN 2021

With March marking a year of national lockdown, it’s important to evaluate one’s lifestyle and wellbeing to ensure mental health is being catered for. This is especially important for those over the age of 50 as the heightened risk of Covid-19 infection has resulted in increased loneliness for many people.

Durban-based counselling psychologist Charlene McIntosh says the pandemic and increased isolation have resulted in fear and anxiety for older people. “The increased risk to health means they are housebound or only venturing out when extremely necessary. It is not easy to cope with prolonged confinement, so seniors may experience depressive symptoms and deterioration in cognition.”

WATCHING FOR SIGNS OF DEPRESSION

McIntosh says the disruption of day-to-day activities, in particular, can negatively impair cognitive function in older people – as outlined by the World Health Organisation.

“During the pandemic, we’ve noted persistent symptoms such as regular and debilitating worry about routine activities,” explains McIntosh. “Lack of social events and support also heighten stress and decrease coping skills, therefore older individuals tend to fixate on the uncertainty of this pandemic and feel agitated.”

She says other signs that could denote mental health decline include increased anger, changes in eating and sleeping patterns, loss of interest in activities that once held attention, increased feelings of isolation, sadness and possible suicidal thoughts.

According to McIntosh, all approaches to dealing with the impact of the pandemic should involve holistic interventions that involve emotional, spiritual, social and physical components to meet mental and other health needs. •

TIPS FOR IMPROVING MENTAL HEALTH INCLUDE:

• Limiting media exposure to avoid constant negative input

• Eating a well-balanced diet

• Keeping to simple yet consistent routines

• Doing some form of daily exercise

• Keeping in contact with loved ones and relying on support networks

• Getting creative.