It won’t surprise you to learn that many senior residents I speak with place great value on caring for their physical health. You can see it in the number of members who walk regularly or participate in fitness activities. In a recent survey, 77% of adults said physical health is important. We understand this as a critical part of overall well-being. From our first P.E. class as children to routine medical checkups later in life, we’re consistently reminded to exercise more, eat healthier foods, and take care of our bodies.
While we may recognize the importance of caring for our minds as well as our bodies, our actions often tell a different story. One survey found that 61% of Americans spend more time improving their physical health, compared to just 39% who focus on their mental health.
So why do we tend to prioritize physical health over mental health? Everyone has personal reasons for how they approach their well-being as they age, but there are a few common patterns that help explain this imbalance.
We Often Don’t Know How to Improve Mental Health
Most people can easily list steps to improve their physical health: eat less red meat and processed foods, walk daily, take the stairs instead of the elevator, increase fruits and vegetables, and stay active.
Mental health, however, can feel less straightforward. While many tips and strategies exist, people may not know how to get started or even how to talk about mental health. Those P.E. classes that taught us about exercise from a young age? Most of us did not receive similar education about caring for our emotional and mental well-being.
We Don’t Set Clear Mental Health Goals
Why do people commit to working out several days a week? To get stronger, breathe easier, and see visible results. Physical progress is tangible and often comes with immediate positive feedback, which encourages us to continue.
Mental health improvements are less visible. Instead of focusing on eliminating stress entirely, it may be more helpful to focus on small, manageable actions that lift your mood today. Calling an old friend, sending a thank-you note, or spending time outdoors are simple steps that can make a meaningful difference. Many people have more options for supporting their mental health than they realize.
Stigma Still Plays a Role
There is still stigma surrounding mental health. Someone might openly share that they attend yoga or go for daily walks, but feel hesitant to admit they are experiencing loneliness, anxiety, or depression. Physical activities are often social and enjoyable, making them easier to talk about. Mental health struggles, on the other hand, may feel more private.
As a result, many people invest less time in mental health activities. While conversations around mental wellness are improving, barriers still exist.
Prevention Matters
Too often, we focus on wellness only when facing illness or crisis. While it’s important to respond in those moments, it’s even better to build resilience before problems arise.
Research shows that the value placed on physical health increases with age. More than 80% of adults aged 57 and older invest more time in caring for their physical health. As we age, attention often shifts to medications, aches, pains, and other physical concerns.
Talking openly about mental health is relatively new. Older adults who grew up in times when these topics were rarely discussed may find it more difficult to focus on mental wellness now. However, mental health remains just as important at every stage of life.
Tips for Caring for Your Mental Health
There are many activities that support both physical and mental well-being, such as getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, and exercising regularly.
In addition, here are a few simple ways to focus specifically on improving mental health:
Practice gratitude and positivity
Take a mindfulness class
Write down things you are grateful for
Engage in relaxation exercises or hobbies
Build and nurture friendships
Reduce negative thinking patterns
Spend time walking in nature
Accept invitations and attend activities
Volunteer when possible
Most of these activities cost little or nothing, require minimal time, and can be done almost anywhere. Working on mental health may not always feel as “active” as physical exercise, but even a few minutes each day can bring meaningful benefits. And you can still fit traditional exercise into your routine as well.
