May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and Mercy Hospital Cassville’s Senior Life Solutions program is spreading awareness about challenges than can exist in receiving mental health help in rural areas.
Studies have shown the risk of suicide is higher in rural areas, making it that much more vital that individuals seek out and have access to help. The Rural Health Information Hub states, “suicide rate is nearly twice as great in the most rural areas of the U.S. compared to the most urban areas.”
“Everyone deserves access to quality mental health care,” said Karen George, Mercy RN and Senior Life Solutions program director. “We work every day to help as many people as possible get the help and treatment they need.”
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) says some of the barriers to asking for help in small town areas include fears that everyone will know, and that no treatment is available locally. That’s not the case at Mercy. For older adults, the Senior Life Solutions program is ready to help, and all Mercy patients should talk about their mental wellness with their primary care provider.
Mercy Hospital Cassville’s Senior Life Solutions program is designed to meet the unique needs of older adults over the age of 65 struggling with depression and anxiety often related to aging.
If you or someone you know has recently experienced any of the following, this program might be the answer:
• Recently experienced a traumatic event
• Lost a spouse or close family member
• Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
• Changes in appetite
• Difficulty sleeping or changes in sleep patterns
• Loss of energy
• Feelings of sadness or grief lasting more than two weeks
• Feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness
The program staff includes a board-certified psychiatrist, licensed social workers, a registered nurse, and other professionals dedicated to the emotional well-being of the seniors in our community.
Family members, physicians, or other health professionals can refer individuals to the program.
For more information about Senior Life Solutions, call 417-847-6042.
MENTAL HEALTH
What: Mercy Hospital promoting Mental Health Awareness Month
How: Senior Life Solutions program
More info: Call 417-847-6042
