Mental Health Awareness Month Highlights Rising Anxiety Across Generations with Focus on ”More Good Days, Together”

May marks Mental Health Awareness Month, and this year’s theme, “More Good Days, Together,” highlights the importance of connection and support in building stronger mental health for individuals of all ages.

Mental health challenges can look different depending on where someone is in life. MRHC mental health professionals are seeing one common trend: a growing sense of anxiety surrounding situations that feel outside of personal control.

Teens Face Overload in a Fast-Paced World

For teenagers and adolescents, constant exposure to content on social media platforms, like TikTok and Instagram, means information is coming at them from all angles and often faster than they can process. Combined with the natural developmental stage of seeking independence and identity, this can feel overwhelming.

“In this stage of life, teens are trying to figure out who they are while navigating a world that feels increasingly uncertain,” said MRHC Mental Health Therapist Tiffany Johnson, T-LMHC. “With limited control over their environment and still-developing emotional regulation skills, this can lead to increased anxiety.”

Anxiety may present as:

  • Overthinking
  • Irritability
  • Perfectionism
  • A strong need to control small aspects of daily life

“By understanding these behaviors, adults can better respond with empathy,” added Johnson. “When adults lead with guidance and reassurance, they help teens build confidence and learn to focus on what they can control.”

Existential Anxiety Affecting Older Adults

Older adults are also experiencing heightened anxiety, often tied to financial pressures and concern for loved ones. Existential anxiety around rising costs of essentials such as gas, groceries, and insurance can be particularly stressful for those on fixed or limited incomes. Additionally, uncertainty around the safety of children or grandchildren, particularly those in the military or law enforcement, can add to this stress.

“It is normal to feel anxious when so much feels out of our control,” said Senior Life Solutions Therapist Maribeth Christensen, BSW, MA, MSW, LMSW, CADC. “Shifting focus to what is within your control, your thoughts, responses, and behaviors can be a powerful way to reduce anxiety. Practicing self-care and intentionally creating ‘good days’ or even ‘good moments’ can make a meaningful difference.”

Simple Ways to Support Your Mental Well-Being

Small daily habits can make a meaningful difference in managing stress and improving overall mental health. For more ideas, visit the Mental Health America Action Guide.

  • Practice positive affirmations
  • Try journaling to process thoughts and emotions
  • Get enough sleep to support emotional and physical health
  • Focus on eating for well-being
  • Stay active through regular exercise
  • Spend time on hobbies that bring joy and relaxation
  • Explore healthy ways to manage stress such as meditation

Need Help? MRHC Is Here for You         

When feelings of anxiety become overwhelming, affecting sleep, limiting daily activities, or leading to withdrawal from others, it may be time to seek professional support. Whether you’re seeking individual counseling, group support, or resources for a loved one, MRHC offers mental health services designed to meet you where you are.

Counseling for All Ages: Hollie Schechinger and Tiffany Johnson offer in-person and telehealth counseling for ages five and up. No referral needed.

Diagnosis and Treatment: Virtual appointments and medication management are available for anxiety, depression, ADHD, and more. Provider referrals are recommended but not required.

Play Therapy for Children: For kids struggling to express their emotions, play therapy helps them process trauma and build coping skills through creative play.

Senior Life Solutions: Individual and group counseling for adults over 65 dealing with depression and anxiety related to aging.

Recovery Center: Integrated care for those facing addiction and mental health issues, with medical, behavioral, and social support.

If you need additional mental health information, education, or would like to discuss support, please schedule an appointment with your primary care physician by calling (712) 655-8100 to discuss treatment options. For those 65 and older, call Senior Life Solutions at (712) 655-8262. For concerns of substance abuse call the Manning Recovery Center at (712) 655-2300.

MRHC Welcomes Maribeth Christensen as Senior Life Solutions Therapist

Maribeth Christensen

Maribeth ChristensenManning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) is pleased to welcome Maribeth Christensen, BSW, MA, MSW, LMSW, CADC, as the therapist for the Senior Life Solutions program. With a rich background in mental health and social work, Christensen brings a wealth of experience and compassion to the role as she provides care and support to seniors in the Manning community.

Originally from Toronto, Canada, Christensen earned her Bachelor of Social Work, Master of Arts, and Master of Social Work degrees before beginning her career providing group, individual, and family therapy at a women’s center, supporting clients dealing with domestic violence, trauma, and addiction. She later led programs for victims and vulnerable persons.

Christensen moved to Manning with her husband in 2022. Since arriving in Iowa, she has served as a mental health therapist and clinical director at St. Gregory’s Recovery Center in Bayard and held leadership roles at Ivory Plains Recovery Center in Adair. Most recently, she worked as the Senior Life Solutions Therapist at CHI in Corning before the opportunity arose to work locally in Manning.

“While I loved the role and my patients, my heart was in Manning,” Christensen shared. “I’m excited to continue working with the Senior Life Solutions program and in my ‘adopted hometown’, giving back directly to the community that has been so welcoming of me and my family.”

At MRHC, Christensen provides individual and group therapy to older adults through the Senior Life Solutions program. Group sessions are held up to three days per week, where participants receive education on topics like depression, anxiety, and grief, as well as evidence-based coping strategies. She also provides individual therapy sessions for a more personalized and in-depth opportunity for healing. Family therapy is also available based on the needs or desires of the individual.

“Mental health is such an important part of overall health,” said Christensen. “Your mental health has the potential to not only improve your physical health, but also your overall quality of life. Having been in mental health recovery myself for over 20 years, I truly believe in prioritizing your mental health and caring for yourself in order to care for others and live a healthy life.”

Seniors, providers, or concerned family members noticing signs of withdrawal, mood changes, or difficulty with daily activities are encouraged to contact Senior Life Solutions. While reaching out can be difficult, especially due to stigma or the symptoms themselves, Christensen emphasizes that support is available and effective. To learn more or make a referral, call (712) 655-8262. Family members, physicians, or other health professionals can refer individuals to the Senior Life Solutions program.

About Senior Life Solutions

MRHC’s Senior Life Solutions program is designed to meet the unique needs of older adults over the age of 65 struggling with depression and anxiety, often related to aging. The program can be helpful for those who have recently experienced a traumatic event or lost a spouse or close family member and have noticed physical and mental effects like changes in appetite, no energy, difficulty sleeping, loss of interest in activities, or intense feelings of sadness and grief.