Why mental health matters
Mental health plays a quiet—but powerful—role in how we experience life. When we’re emotionally well, it’s easier to stay connected, find meaning, and feel engaged in the world around us.
As health care professionals, we’ve seen growing recognition of how deeply mental and physical health are connected. One influences the other—and when both are supported, people thrive. That’s why providers and care teams alike are placing greater focus on emotional well-being.
Still, good mental health isn’t a one-size-fits-all experience. And support doesn’t always have to mean therapy sessions—there are many paths that can help.
At Vivie, one of those paths is our PEARLS program—a proven approach that empowers older adults to take steps toward a more active, connected life.
How PEARLS helps older adults
PEARLS stands for Program to Encourage Active, Rewarding Lives—and that’s exactly what it does. This short-term coaching program helps older adults take back control when they’re feeling low or disconnected.
Even now, I hear from many clients who are still adjusting after the isolation of the pandemic. They’re trying to reconnect with others and re-engage in activities they once loved—but it’s not always easy.
That’s where PEARLS comes in. Through weekly coaching, you’re encouraged to set meaningful goals—whether it’s spending time with others, moving your body more, or simply doing something you enjoy.
It’s a proven approach that focuses on activity and engagement. We call it behavioral activation—and it helps shift the focus from feeling stuck to taking steps forward. Over time, these changes can make a real difference for people experiencing symptoms of depression.
Learn to recognize symptoms of depression
You might be surprised to learn that depression often goes unrecognized—especially in older adults. Even though nearly 3 in 10 adults will experience depression at some point in their life, it’s not always obvious.
Take a moment to reflect. Do any of these feel familiar?
- You’ve lost interest in things you used to enjoy.
- You’re feeling down, hopeless, or just “off”.
- Your sleep is irregular—too little or too much.
- You feel tired, even when you’ve rested.
- Your appetite has changed noticeably.
- It’s hard to focus on things like reading or watching TV.
- You feel physically sluggish—or restless and fidgety.
- You’ve had thoughts of self-harm.
If you recognize any of these, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to manage it by yourself.
Get the support you deserve with PEARLS
Through PEARLS, you can start feeling more like yourself again—with the help of a caring coach and a plan that works for your life.
Our population health team is here to walk alongside you. If you’ve been experiencing any of the symptoms above, or if you’re simply ready to feel more engaged and fulfilled, we’d love to talk. PEARLS coaching is available at no cost to you, thanks to grant funding—so there’s no barrier to getting started.
To learn more or to connect with a member of our team, reach out today. We're here to help.
Teresia Mortenson
Teresia Mortenson has built her career around one clear purpose: making mental health care more accessible and responsive for older adults. As director of behavioral health in Vivie’s population health division, she leads non-clinical mental health programs for residents and team members, and provides clinical therapy to individuals who may otherwise face barriers to care. Teresia holds degrees in social work and psychology from St. Cloud State University, a master’s degree in social work from The College of St. Scholastica, and is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW). Her certifications span dementia care, caregiver coaching, mental health, case management, and advance care planning. Her passion for aging services was sparked at a young age, when she volunteered in a long-term care community where her mother worked. From long-term care and care management to hospice and counseling, Teresia brings clinical insight and deep empathy to every role she serves.
