The Midlife Brain: Is Midlife A Good Time To Focus On Mental Health?
Various developmental theories have been posited in the last century, all focused on the different periods of one’s life. Midlife has been a subject of interest for years, exploring how people might react to the unique hormonal, cognitive, and emotional changes that can occur during this period. Some may wonder whether mental health can be impacted by midlife and whether the midlife brain may be especially susceptible to experiencing mental health challenges. Below, explore strategies for focusing on mental health, as well as statistics on how a midlife crisis might impact someone. For individualized support, connect with a licensed therapist.
Does the brain change during midlife?
Some people may be able to strengthen their cognitive abilities, learn new skills, and improve their memory during this period. Although negative changes can also occur, research suggests it may be possible to rewire the brain and make positive changes by focusing on promoting good mental health during midlife.
The impacts of midlife on mental health
When individuals reach the ages of 40 to 55, they may experience new mental health challenges. Below are a few of these potential challenges and their impacts.
A “midlife crisis”
A midlife crisis is a popular cultural term for the sudden urge some people in midlife experience to drastically change their lives. For example, someone in midlife might suddenly make a significant purchase, move homes, get divorced, or decide to have their last child. This crisis can also contribute to the development of new mental health challenges, and some people might experience depression or anxiety when facing the idea of approaching midlife and considering the choices they wish they’d made in the past.
Physical changes impacting mental wellness
Physical changes in the body and brain often occur around midlife. For example, people may start to experience worsened vision, hearing, and general bodily function. Chronic pain can also be more common in middle age, and some may develop new health conditions, such as diabetes. These changes can be scary and could lead to anxiety, depression, and stress for some people.
A sense of stagnation
Some people start to face their own mortality in midlife. If an individual has been following the same path for years, they might begin to experience a sense of stagnation due to a lack of change. This sensation might lead some people to make significant changes to their lives, while it may contribute to depression or anxiety in others.
Hormonal and cognitive changes
Hormonal changes like menopause usually occur in midlife. Some people may experience challenges like erectile dysfunction and changes in libido. Cognitive challenges like memory loss can also start to occur, and some people may develop early-onset dementia.
Is midlife a good time to focus on mental health?
Midlife may offer an opportunity to value mental health and wellness. In midlife, you may form new mental pathways by caring for yourself and making positive changes. For example, exercising, practicing self-care, and maintaining healthy relationships may help people take control of a period that might seem overwhelming.
Midlife mental health statistics and research
Midlife can come with a variety of challenges and benefits. Below are a few statistics about midlife mental health:
- Mental illness prevalence appears to rise during midlife.
- In 2020, 20.5% of those aged 45 to 64 received mental health treatment.
- Approximately 53% of all suicide-related deaths in 2022 were in those aged 45 and older, showcasing a need for suicide intervention in older populations.
- Women are usually more likely than men to experience mental health challenges in midlife.
- Exercise can improve cognitive function and mental health as individuals age.
If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts or urges, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988. Support is available 24/7.
How to protect your mental health in midlife
If you’re experiencing mental health challenges, stress, or cognitive decline, consider the following coping techniques.
Practice self-care
Self-care in midlife can be vital, as this period of life often involves difficulty with change. You can practice self-care at any stage, and self-care doesn’t only involve the physical changes you make. Below are a few ways to care for your mental health:
- Meditation and mindfulness: Midlife can be a helpful time to slow down and focus on the moment. If you are having trouble coping with aging, consider observing your body and environment without assigning judgment or labels. Notice the physical sensations in your body and breathe deeply.
- Exercise: Exercise may simultaneously improve mental and physical wellness and tends to be significantly associated with a reduced risk of dementia in old age.
- Journaling: If you have thoughts about your past or present that are difficult to manage, consider writing them down to track your mindset over time. You can look back at past entries to see how you’ve grown and remind yourself that you’re still progressing.
Start meeting your goals
If you’ve wanted to make changes to your life, such as building a new shed, starting a new hobby, or going back to school, there may be no better time than the present to get started. Pursuing your aspirations can distract you from mental health challenges and stress and may help you reconnect with your inner child.
Spend time with loved ones
Social connection can prolong your life and reduce your risk of physical and mental illness. Spend time with your loved ones, including those who may have moved away. You can consider sending letters, gifts, or taking a trip to see those you love. If you are lonely at home, you might consider adopting a pet if you have the funds and resources to do so.
You can make important changes at any age
Some people experience mental health challenges in midlife because they believe it’s too late for them to make a change. For example, someone who never went to university might believe they will never get a degree once they reach midlife. However, any adult can attend college, and there are many potential career paths to consider. Believing in yourself and pursuing your dreams may give you motivation and inspire you to live fully.
Other changes you might make in midlife could include adopting a child or pet, building your own home, starting a new project, taking a class to learn a new skill, becoming a musician or artist, or dating again if you are single. Dating apps, meetups for older individuals, and community events can offer opportunities to connect with potential partners.
How to find mental health support
You don’t have to go through midlife alone. Anyone at any age can consider therapy as an option for coping with change or mental health concerns. However, some people might avoid therapy due to the cost or difficulty accessing support in their area. In this case, online therapy platforms like BetterHelp may be more accessible.
Online therapy platforms typically allow individuals to set appointments at times that fit their schedules. For example, an individual with a typical nine-to-five job might schedule sessions outside of traditional business hours. In addition, resources like group sessions, journaling prompts, worksheets, and goal-tracking tools may help clients make the most of their therapy experiences.
Studies show that online therapy can be effective in treating conditions like depression and anxiety, which tend to be common in midlife populations. In a 2018 study, online treatment appeared to be more effective than face-to-face therapy in increasing the quality of life and reducing depression and anxiety symptoms, as well as being more cost-effective.
Takeaway
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