Aging, Loneliness, Mental Health

Mental health is not merely the absence of disease, but a vital resource that supports learning, emotional resilience, human relationships, work capacity, and a fulfilling life at any age. In today’s fast-paced and demanding world, the mental health of the aging population is becoming one of the biggest public health challenges.

Global Situation and Policy

Although mental health disorders are one of the leading causes of lost work capacity globally, mental health services in many countries remain underfunded and neglected. This also applies to affluent countries, such as Switzerland.

The UN Sustainable Development Goals for 2030 have designated mental health and well-being as a priority, but actual progress has been slow.

The COVID-19 pandemic brought mental health issues to the forefront with new urgency, especially among the elderly, who experienced increased loneliness, anxiety, and limited access to support services. Several countries have begun to utilize digital mental health platforms, teletherapy, and community-based solutions, but service accessibility remains uneven.

Depression and Mood Disorders

According to 2023 data from the World Health Organization, over 300 million people suffer from depression. Among the elderly, depression often goes unnoticed, as its symptoms overlap with age-related phenomena.

Statistics show:

One in three individuals over 60 experiences symptoms of depression or anxiety
Depression affects women more frequently than men
According to forecasts, depression will be the leading cause of lost work capacity by 2030

Modern treatment methods, such as digital cognitive therapy, light therapy, and psychedelic therapies (e.g., psilocybin), have shown good results even in complex cases.

Social Inequality and Mental Health

Mental health is closely linked to socioeconomic status. Individuals with lower incomes more frequently experience stress, unemployment, poor living conditions, and limited access to services.

However, even wealthier individuals are not immune. Studies show that people of higher status often experience more anxiety and depression, stemming from social comparison, self-criticism, and expectations of success.

In individualistic cultures, personal success and achievements are highly valued, which can lead to greater vulnerability. In collectivistic cultures, individuals rely more on the community, but even there, excessive pressure can lead to burnout.

Aging and Loneliness

As we age, mental health becomes even more crucial. Loneliness is linked to an increased risk of dementia and heart disease, and it contributes to deepening depression, especially among older men.

Some countries, such as Japan and the United Kingdom, have even created ministerial positions for loneliness to draw attention to this growing problem.

Modern solutions include:

AI-powered companions, such as ElliQ
Intergenerational cohabitation, connecting different age groups
Doctor-recommended time in nature or community gardening to support mental health

Mental Well-being throughout Life

Mental health changes throughout life and requires continuous attention. Prevention, openness, and reducing stigma are key.

Important steps:

Workplace mental health programs
Teaching mental well-being in schools
Accessible digital therapy solutions
Intergenerational support and mentorship

Summary

Mental health must be valued as much as physical health. Especially in an aging society, we must ensure that life is not only long but also lived meaningfully. We all have a role – whether as a parent, employer, friend, or specialist – to make society more supportive and understanding. Mental health is not only an individual but also a societal responsibility. Strong mental health is an investment in a better tomorrow.