Mental Health Q&A
As we grow older, it’s natural to notice changes—not just in our bodies, but in how we feel emotionally and mentally as well. You may find yourself wondering about changes in mood, increased worry, or concerns about memory, and whether these experiences are simply part of aging or something more. In this blog, we’re sharing a question-and-answer conversation with a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who specializes in caring for older adults. The goal is to provide clear, compassionate information to help you better understand your mental health, recognize when support might be helpful, and feel more confident discussing these concerns with your doctor or loved ones. You deserve to feel supported, heard, and informed at every stage of life—and we hope this Q&A with our guest writer, Katie Miller, PMHNP-BC, offers guidance and reassurance along the way.
1. What do you feel is the biggest misconception regarding psychology and therapy for the current senior community?
One of the largest misconceptions related to mental health in the senior population is that mental health symptoms are normal.
Unfortunately, a large part of our senior population grew up in a time when mental health was something that was not discussed or significantly downplayed. There used to be only certain diagnoses that were treated, and today that sigma has done a complete 180. Those of all ages suffering from mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder, adjustment disorder, and insomnia can receive routine treatment, along with those whose lifelong journey with mental illness has been ongoing, such as those diagnosed with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. It is common that those over the age of 65 underreport their symptoms due to the significant stigma mental health held only just a few years ago.
It is important for people of all ages to understand, but especially those of the senior community, that we are here to help assist with your quality of life, focusing on improving your function, and maintaining your independence throughout the aging process.
2. What do you see as the most significant emotional struggle for seniors today? How can it be addressed?
One of the most significant emotional struggles for seniors that has come up during my time as a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner treating all age groups has been the loss of independence. This can look like so many different things - no longer driving, depending on family or friends for assistance with maintenance or finances, assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, or meal preparation and a decline in physical health.
Identification is key; it is important for seniors to recognize this in themselves, but also for those closest to them to keep a watchful eye on the subtle but impactful changes going on with the senior in their life.
If we are able to identify that someone might be suffering from loss of independence, we can look to find them services in the community that can assist them with adjusting to their new normals.
3. Where does someone get started when trying to improve their mental health, and do you have any recommendations on how to support/encourage someone in that process?
When getting started in improving your mental health, it is important for you to first identify what problems you might be suffering from-even just saying "I don't feel like myself lately" is a great place to start.
Identifying people in your life who you trust, and can speak with, such as a family member, faith leader, or friend, can open the doors to feeling better. Sometimes talking with those you love and trust and letting them know you are feeling lost or down is all the treatment you need!
If there is an identified need for treatment, however, it is important to discuss it with your Primary Care Provider. Most of the time, our Primary Care Provider has been treating us for a very long time, and we have built trust and a rapport with them. It is often the PCP who will help with identifying and treating depression or anxiety before seeking psychiatric services. If they feel that further help is needed, they can then make referrals to psychiatric services in the community.
4. Are there any online, within someone's community, or elsewhere that you recommend to support someone looking for more information/guidance?
There are multiple resources available online that reference and speak about mental health. If someone is looking for resources in their community, there are different places to look:
Primary Care Provider's office
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid/Private Insurance website - you can search for mental health providers just like you search for a Neurologist or an Endocrinologist.
Your local National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI) office will likely have resources, materials, and support groups tailored to certain mental health conditions.
The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) has resources to reference when looking for a mental health provider.
SAMHSA-Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services- is more tailored to addiction treatment, however does offer resources for mental health and community well-being.
There are also websites that now offer services online, such as TalkSpace, BetterHelp or Talkiatry. However, these are sites in which it is recommended you put in an inquiry to see if they take your insurance prior to booking a visit with them.
5. If you could speak directly to the population regarding their mental health, what would you like them to know?
It is never too late to seek services for your well-being and mental health. Whether you have suffered in silence for some time or you are new to feeling down or anxious, there are better days ahead. It is not the norm to live with these symptoms, and there are caring and qualified practitioners who are willing and able to assist you; all you have to do is ask!
We’d like to thank Katie for sharing her time and expertise with us on this important topic. We’re grateful for her work in the community and for her time to build this Q&A for you. If this piece resonated with you or felt familiar, please be kind to yourself. Many in this generation were raised to be private and self-reliant, and it can feel uncomfortable to talk about emotional or mental health concerns. Reaching out for support is not a sign of weakness but strength —it’s a thoughtful way of taking care of yourself. If you feel ready, consider sharing your thoughts with your primary care provider, a trusted family member, or someone you respect. You can also take your time, reflect on what you’ve read, or return to this information when it feels right. Maybe even share it with someone who you think might find it helpful. Your well-being matters, and you deserve care and understanding at every stage of your life.
About the Author: Katie Miller, PMHNP-BC
Senior Clinical Director for Vital Healthcare Solutions
Katie earned her undergraduate degree from Cedar Crest College and went on to complete her Master of Science in Nursing as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) at DeSales University. She has been working as a PMHNP for the last 5 years, specifically with the geriatric population. Before that, her experience was working for a large health system as a cardiothoracic nurse in both the ICU setting and the Cardiac Cath lab. She currently lives in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, with her husband, two daughters, Amelia (10) and Isabelle (4), along with their two dogs, five chickens, and horse, Maximus. Outside of work, her family spends as much time as possible at their barn riding and caring for their horse. When they are not riding, they enjoy family game nights and taking small day trips to explore local breweries throughout the tri-state area.