Geropsychology is a branch of psychology that specializes in the health needs of senior citizens, including mental health. Those not familiar with this field may wonder what issues seniors may bring to therapy. Some include: 1. Depression Seniors have a lot of time to reflect on how they have lived their lives. They also often outlive some of the most important people in their lives. In addition, seniors may feel a sense of loss or low self-esteem after they retire, if they do not find meaningful work in other areas. All of these issues may lead to depression. In fact, The National Alliance on Mental Illness reports that more than 6.5 million Americans over age 65 suffer from depression. 2. Anxiety Many seniors feel anxiety around aging and impending end-of-life situations. In addition, children or grandchildren may be pressuring the patient to move out of a home and into a care facility. These changes can cause mood disturbances and even panic in some instances. 3. Substance Abuse A report by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration found that about half of all Americans ages 50 to 70 will be at high risk for alcohol and marijuana abuse by 2020, compared with less than 9 percent in 1999. In addition, the chronic health problems that seniors often face might lead to prescription pill abuse in some instances.