Mental health
Mental health matters at every age. If something doesn't feel quite right, support is available and small steps can make a difference.
Many people assume that feeling low, lonely or withdrawn is simply part of getting older. In reality, it isn’t. While later life can bring significant changes, ongoing sadness, anxiety or a loss of enjoyment in everyday life should never be dismissed as “just ageing”.
Good mental health is an important part of overall wellbeing. Many older people continue to lead active, connected and meaningful lives. At the same time, experiences such as retirement, health changes, caring responsibilities, or the loss of loved ones can affect how we feel.
Noticing changes in your mood, energy or motivation can help you recognise when something may not feel quite right. Reaching out early and taking small steps to support your wellbeing can make a real difference.
Podcast Series
Listen to Breaking Taboos
A ten-part series exploring ageing and mental health through the honest experiences of older Australians. Explore the episodes →Support
If you would like to speak with someone, help is available.
Lifeline
131114 24-hour crisis support and suicide prevention service.
Beyond Blue
1300 22 4636 Information and support for anxiety, depression and mental wellbeing.
When something doesn't feel quite right
Everyone has days when they feel worried, sad or overwhelmed. But if these feelings continue for weeks, become stronger than usual, or begin to affect everyday life, it may be helpful to talk to someone.
Some signs that something may not feel quite right include:
- Feeling persistently sad, anxious or worried
- Losing interest in activities you usually enjoy
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Feeling unusually tired, irritable or withdrawn
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Feeling lonely or disconnected from others
These experiences are more common than many people realise, and support is available. Speaking with someone you trust or a health professional can be an important first step.
Support for your mental health and wellbeing
Looking out for someone else
Sometimes it can be easier to notice changes in someone we care about than in ourselves. If you are concerned about a friend, neighbour or family member, a simple conversation can make a difference.
You might notice that someone seems more withdrawn than usual, has stopped doing activities they once enjoyed, or appears unusually worried or low.
If you are concerned, consider:
- Checking in and asking how they are going
- Letting them know you've noticed they may not seem like themselves
- Listening without judgement
- Encouraging them to speak with their GP or another support service
Often, knowing that someone cares and is willing to listen can be an important first step toward getting support.
Podcast series
Breaking Taboos - Older Australians talk about Mental Health
Breaking Taboos is a ten-part podcast exploring ageing and mental health through the experiences of older Australians. The series discusses topics including depression, loneliness, grief and the stigma surrounding mental health in later life. Some listeners may find parts of these conversations difficult, so we encourage you to listen at your own pace.