National Stress Awareness Month

April is recognized as National Stress Awareness Month, coinciding with the arrival of spring—a period symbolizing both renewal and growth. During this time, it's important to focus on the unique challenges that seniors face and to ensure they have access to the support and resources necessary to navigate stressful situations.

Seniors often deal with significant stressors, including health issues, financial concerns, feelings of loneliness, and the loss of loved ones. Retirement transitions, medical challenges, and social isolation can heighten anxiety and feelings of being overwhelmed. Recent events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and political issues, have further intensified these stressors, leading to increased uncertainty and fear.

This April, let's make a dedicated effort to support the mental health and self-care of our senior community. Encouraging seniors to participate in relaxing and socially engaging activities—such as light exercise, pursuing hobbies, or connecting with others (even online)—can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being. Additionally, it is crucial to provide access to mental health services and support groups specifically designed for seniors.

We’d like to highlight a valuable resource available in the Willamette Valley: the Senior Peer Mentors program. This group consists of trained and supervised volunteers aged 45 and older who offer confidential, friendly, and supportive mentoring. The program utilizes a well-regarded workbook approach to assist individuals experiencing depression and/or anxiety.

Who Can Get Help?

This free program is available to residents in Marion, Polk, Yamhill, Tillamook, or Clatsop Counties who:

* Are 60 years of age or older.

* Want to develop more effective coping strategies for mild to moderate depression and/or anxiety.

How They Help

Senior Peer Mentors work with individuals to understand their experiences and develop clear, actionable goals using workbooks designed to help manage depression and anxiety. Common issues addressed include:

* Persistent sadness, stress related to life circumstances, or isolation.

* Chronic illness, disability, or end-of-life concerns.

* Family problems, caregiver stress, or bereavement.

* Difficulty adapting to change or excessive worry.

While individuals may already possess coping mechanisms, the program offers a supportive environment to discuss concerns and learn new strategies.

These in-home visits typically last about an hour and occur weekly, averaging 8-10 weeks in duration. All discussions are private and confidential, and participants may discontinue the visits at any time.

How to Get Started

To learn more or make a referral (with the individual’s consent), please contact our ADRC at 1-866-206-4799. There is no cost to participants, and Senior Peer Mentors do not accept payment or tips.

For further information, you can also contact the program coordinator:

Chad Cox, L.C.S.W.

Salem: 503-304-3414

Chad.cox@nwsds.org

This April, let’s focus on enhancing awareness about the importance of addressing stress among seniors and promoting a supportive and understanding environment in our communities. By working together to recognize and tackle these challenges, we can contribute to happier, healthier lives for our seniors.