Psychotherapy in Nursing Homes
While this year's Olympics in Tokyo has brought new records, it has also brought awareness to an important subject more than ever before—mental health. Olympians face heavy amounts of pressure as they strive to be the best with the world watching and judging them through their screens. In addition, the inability of family and friends of these Olympians to attend the Games in Tokyo has led to more difficulties coping with the pressures the sporting event brings.
Australian WNBA player, Liz Cambage, pulled out one week prior to the start of the Games due to anxiety about Tokyo's restrictions related to social distancing for COVID that would have not allowed her friends and family to be there. American gymnast Simone Biles dropped out of the team and individual all-around competition to take care of her mental health. Even American runner, Noah Lyles discussed his own mental health after his win pointing out that he had to stop taking his antidepressants as they affected his energy and training for the Olympics.
These are just a few Olympians who have come forward about their mental health, yet their impact on speaking about the subject has been immense. Their actions and discussions show the importance of prioritizing mental health even under intense circumstances. Furthermore, they present the idea that they are more than just Olympians—they are human beings just like us.
Individuals may feel they are only defined by a single identity, such that they may feel that they are just a person with a disability or just a nurse; however, they are much more than that. A person can possess multiple identities and just because one seems more prominent than the others, it does not mean that it defines them completely.
Understanding that you are more than a single identity can be difficult, however therapy can help you discover and learn more about yourself. If you are struggling with these feelings, please reach out today. Our clinicians can help you realize that you are more than a single identity just as the athletes in the Olympics are more than just Olympians.
Combating Isolation & Loneliness
Psychotherapy in nursing homes often focuses on feelings of being disconnected from family or the world beyond the walls of a skilled nursing facility. Well-trained psychologists are adept at creating a safe space in which people can process these emotions and develop coping mechanisms to foster a sense of connection and belonging.
Adjusting to a New Environment
Moving to a nursing home is a significant life change. Mental and emotional muscles will likely be taxed in ways they haven’t been before. Psychotherapy can be a useful forum to take stock of one’s inner life. From there, therapists can help residents adapt to their new environment, explore new relationships, and work toward a positive understanding of their new life situation.
Maintaining Cognitive Function
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a psychotherapy modality that often finds success. CBT is about examining thought patterns, identifying unhelpful ones, and working to re-route our responses to the world. CBT can stimulate mental engagement, potentially slowing cognitive decline and helping residents maintain a sense of autonomy.
Managing Stress Due to Illness
Many residents of SKF/nursing homes live with chronic illness of one kind or another. Such chronic conditions can leave people feeling overwhelmed by irritation and pain, uncertainty and dependency. Psychotherapy provides tools to re-frame one’s reaction to the realities of long-term illness, resulting in less stress and an overall improvement in quality of life.
Fostering Relationships & Communication
Family dynamics can shift dramatically when a loved one enters a nursing home. Psychotherapy can facilitate better communication, helping residents and their families navigate these changes with empathy and understanding.
Our psychologists aim to be neutral sounding boards for the concerns and feelings of both nursing home residents and family members. By encouraging everyone to share their perspective, psychologists make all parties feel heard and then begin the process of bringing challenges and opportunities to light to help foster more positive relationship and communication dynamics.
Pacific Coast Psychology Provides Psychotherapy in Nursing Homes
Psychotherapy can be a game-changer for residents in nursing homes. Life in a nursing home comes with a mix of adjustments—some welcome, others less so. Psychotherapy provides a space to navigate these changes with compassion and care.
At Pacific Coast Psychology, we have partnered with dozens of skilled nursing facilities across California, offering effective mental health solutions that address the complex needs of both residents and staff.
Interested in learning more? Reach out for a consultation today, and let us help your facility thrive.