A Therapist’s Perspective: Supporting Seniors During Suicide Awareness Month

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month — a time to remind one another that no one has to face life’s hardest moments alone.

As we age, life brings unique challenges. Retirement, moving to a new home, losing a loved one, facing new physical limitations, or adjusting to less independence can be difficult to process. These changes can stir up feelings of sadness, guilt, hopelessness, or even worthlessness.

Why It’s Important to Talk About Mental Health

Just like everyone has physical health, everyone also has mental health. Talking about it doesn’t mean something is “wrong” with you — it simply means you’re paying attention to an important part of your overall well-being. Openly discussing mental health allows older adults to gain a better understanding of their own emotional well-being. It helps them recognize signs of depression or anxiety and encourages them to seek support when they need it.

Unfortunately, symptoms of depression and anxiety are often overlooked in seniors — sometimes even dismissed as “just part of getting older.” In fact, Mental Health America reports that nearly 60% of people 65 and older believe it’s normal to feel depressed as they age.

But here’s the encouraging truth: depression and anxiety are not inevitable parts of aging. Seniors deserve the same access to support and mental health care as anyone else. Left untreated, these struggles can worsen physical health, lower quality of life, and increase suicide risk.

As a therapist, one of the most rewarding parts of my work is seeing older adults give therapy a chance with an open mind. Many come in feeling “stuck”, and it’s inspiring to watch them learn new ways to cope, reconnect with their strengths, and even return to the activities and relationships they once loved. Often in group, members recognize factors that are outside of their control — but they also become empowered by identifying what is within their control and where they can take charge to begin feeling better.

How We Can Help

At Senior Life Solutions at Bluegrass Community Hospital, our group therapy sessions are led by myself, a therapist who provides a supportive, nurturing environment. In group, members share their lived experiences, talk about what’s working and what isn’t, and practice real-life coping and communication skills. Through connection with peers who are facing similar challenges, members find understanding, encouragement, and hope. Through open discussion, strengths are uncovered and confidence is re-established.

Referrals to our program can come from many places — including self-referrals, primary care providers, specialists, family members, friends, community groups, and nursing or residential facilities. Every referral begins with a confidential assessment to determine if you or your loved one might benefit from the program.

A Closing Message of Hope

Aging may bring challenges, but no one has to navigate them alone. Support, healing, and connection are possible at any stage of life. This September, let’s remind ourselves and each other: reaching out for help is a sign of strength, and life is worth living fully — at every age. If you would like more information or would like to discuss support for yourself or a loved one, please call us at 859.879.2459.