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A new study found Tennessee is the No. 2 worst state for seniors’ mental health.

The holidays can be hard for seniors who have lost loved ones and it is an important time of year to check on them. The number of seniors struggling with mental health has increased 24% since 2015, according to the CDC. Depression is often due to loneliness and isolation, declining health and lack of physical activity. There are many ways to help seniors get out of their funk.

Seniorly today released a study on the Best & Worst States for Seniors’ Mental Health after analyzing five categories using the most recent CDC and Census Bureau data from 2022-2024.

Key Findings in Tennessee:

• Householders age 60+ living alone: 38.8% (Rank: #16 (tie))
• Number of adults 65+ per mental health specialist: 52 (Rank: #46 (tie))
• Adults 60+ who always or usually get emotional and social support: 65.4% (Rank: #26)
• Mentally unhealthy days per month among adults 65+: 3.7 (Rank: #50)
• Adults 65+ who have ever been told they have depression: 22.4% (Rank: #51)

5 Tips to Help Seniors’ Mental Health:

• Spend time with family and friends.
• Join social and community events.
• 30 minutes of light exercise per day.
• Keep the brain sharp by reading or doing puzzles.
• Learn a new language or how to play an instrument.