Aging and Mental Health Simplified with Tommy Bateman

Mental well-being matters at every stage of life, but for older generations it often comes with unique challenges. 

 

To help us break this down, Tommy Bateman, Director of Behavioral Health at Sentara Health Plans, shares insight into the mental health struggles that baby boomers and older adults may face, and how to address them with care and understanding. 

 

This episode shines a light on the importance of normalizing mental health conversations among older generations. While Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z are more open about discussing these issues, many baby boomers grew up in a time when mental health was rarely talked about. As they navigate retirement, changes in health, loss of independence, and the grief that often comes with aging, these conversations are more important than ever. 

 

We’ll explore why finding the right therapist matters, the differences between men and women in approaching mental health, and how to cope with grief, loss, and the search for meaning and purpose later in life. 

 

Trigger Warning  This episode includes discussion of mental health struggles and suicide. If you or a loved one is in crisis, help is available. Please call or text 988 to connect with the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You are not alone. 

 

Key Topics Discussed 

• Conversations around baby boomers and mental health 

• How the aging process impacts emotional well-being 

• The critical role of a strong relationship with your therapist 

• Male and female attitudes toward talking about mental health 

• Coping with despair and the danger of suffering in silence 

• Grief, loss, and the search for purpose and meaning 

 

About the Guest 

Tommy Bateman is a healthcare leader with more than a decade of experience in behavioral health and strategic management. He currently serves as the Director of Clinical Practice Management at Sentara Health Plans, where he leads initiatives to improve care quality and enhance outcomes through value-based contracting.  

A graduate with master’s degrees in business, counseling, and criminal justice, Tommy has worked across both healthcare and justice systems. His career spans counseling, managing behavioral health teams, and developing programs for underserved populations. Known for combining data-driven strategy with a deep commitment to patient well-being, Tommy brings both expertise and compassion to the conversation on mental health. 

 

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To learn more about Sentara Health Plans and our range of health coverage options, visit sentarahealthplans.com. We’ve got you covered! 

 

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Disclaimer 

The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Sentara Health Plans. The information shared on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. We strongly encourage you to consult with your primary care physician before taking any actions based on the information provided in this podcast. 

 

By listening to this podcast, you agree that Sentara Health Plans is not liable for any damages or losses arising from the use or misuse of the information presented here.