In this time of uncertainty, stress and anxiety levels are increasing at an alarming rate. Knowing this, it’s important to understand how anxiety and stress levels can effect our overall health and put seniors at a greater risk of developing new health conditions. In this blog, we’ll not only stress (no pun intended!) the importance of keeping stress levels down, but also some steps you can take to do so!

In post-COVID America, there are new stressors we are faced with every day. Whether it’s from the fear of contracting the virus, isolation depression or even from disagreements with the way politicians are handling the crisis, each can have negative effects on your overall health. The reason is that stress and anxiety increase cortisol levels in the body, which can have a negative effect on your heart and lead to more serious heart disease. Not to mention, stress is a key factor in the rising obesity levels in the US. Researchers have found that “…individuals who had persistently high levels of the “stress hormone” cortisol over long periods of time weighed more, had a higher body mass index (BMI), and a larger waist, compared with those who had low levels of the hormone.” And as we all know, obesity can cause a laundry list of other, more serious health conditions (Type 2 Diabetes, Liver Disease, Cancer, etc.).

If you’ve ever experienced anxiety or depression, you know that it doesn’t just go away. Sometimes it takes separating yourself from the problem in order to relieve your worries. Arguably the healthiest way to “get out of your own head” is to exercise. By increasing your heart rate naturally, your body increases the availability of important anti-anxiety neurochemicals like serotonin and norepinephrine!

While exercise and managing diet are both great ways to relieve anxiety and stress, there may be more to the problem. Mental health disorders are still very misunderstood in the US and particularly so in the senior community. Knowing when to seek professional help for anxiety can make the difference between happiness and depression! A recent study from the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in the US showed an increase of 37.7% in new anti-anxiety medication prescriptions. In response to this and the limited availability for in-person doctors visits, many insurance carriers are now offering virtual mental health visits at a zero dollar copay. Whether you’re more suited for virtual counseling or medication, it’s always best to have the professionals help!

As mental health issues continue to rise in the US, a greater importance needs to be put on self-evaluation and stress management. By taking care of your body and knowing when to ask for help, you can help fix what ails you and prevent what doesn’t. At The Wellington, we’re opening up more and more activities to help our resident’s get their mind off the pandemic. Feel free to stop by our common area for our socially-distanced workout classes! If you or a loved one are interested in finding a senior living community that puts an emphasis on mental health, give us a call!