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Mental health hub for professionals

Low mood isn't part and parcel of getting older. We've pulled together useful information for you to share with the older people you support, as well as our latest mental health research and reports.

  • Depression and anxiety

    This page looks at the signs of depression and anxiety, as well as treatment options.

  • Mental and physical health

    Physical symptoms can be a result of how you feel mentally. Find out what to look out for and when to speak to your GP.

  • It's not just your age

    Life changes and pressures can affect your mental health. Explore some of the reasons and what support is available.

  • Talking Therapies

    These are an effective treatment for people feeling low or anxious. Find out more about the different types.

  • Loneliness

    Loneliness can have a significant impact on mental health. Find out what causes it and what support is available.

  • Bereavement

    Find out what support is available for people who are coping with grief after a bereavement.

Other helpful resources for older people

Your mind matters guide

This guide outlines how you can take care of your mental health, from how you might be feeling to what support is available.

Bereavement guide

This guide explores how you might be feeling after a bereavement and some of the things that could help you.

Advice for carers guide

This guide looks at both the practical and emotional sides of caring, from looking after yourself to financial support.

More resources for professionals

Let's talk – depression and anxiety

This mental health resource, produced with the support of the Health and Wellbeing Alliance (HWA), Age UK and older people, aims to help professionals and the public better recognise and respond to older people’s mental health.

Download the booklet (3 MB)

Supporting older people's mental health

In a recent Discover article, Age UK's Health Influencing team discusses the impact of dismissing older people's mental health concerns, and what can be done to help.

See the article now

What's stopping older people from accessing mental health support?

Older people's mental health issues can often go unnoticed and untreated – but there's plenty of effective support available. NHS Talking Therapies have a higher success rate for older people than younger age groups, but older people are under referred.

Age UK's NHS Talking Therapies Positive Practice Guide highlights the barriers preventing older people accessing or receiving mental health treatment, as well as trying to change attitudes and highlight the best way to treat older people who have mental health concerns.

Download the report (3 KB)

Mental health in later life: understanding the needs, policies and services in England

Age UK and the Centre for Mental Health have released a briefing that looks at the condition of mental health support and policy for older people in England – and what can be done to improve it.

Download the briefing (2 MB)

Results of Age UK’s research into the mental health of people aged 50 and over

Age UK's Health Influencing team have put together a report to highlight the findings of their 2023 survey which looked at older people’s mental health. In particular, it looks at the new 50-59 age group, as well as the 60+ age groups, exploring how their mental health is being affected.

Download the report (6 MB)

Your mind matters

Our short animation looks at the importance of looking after your mental health, and how you can take that first step to speak to someone about it.

Not what you're looking for?

We have information and advice on a range of other topics – including housing, social care, legal affairs and driving. Visit our professionals homepage to find out more.

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