Ageism

By Ashley Mitchell

Ageism is something that is not spoken about a lot. It is a topic many would like to avoid or may deem unimportant. Ageism is important though and it really is an issue that goes across the board. The definition of ageism is “prejudice or discrimination on the grounds of a person's age.” I was fortunate enough a few years ago to work with the Maine Arts Commissions and Lifetime Arts and participate in intensive training on the subject of ageism. One common theme we all found was we all have experienced a form of discrimination based on our age, whether we are young or old, it is an issue that happens across the board. I believe that many forms of ageism are completely unintentional.

Young people, like older people, both run into issues with their ages. Careers is one common issue that hits younger and older people alike. People in their 40-60s make up half of the people who are unemployed for more than 6 months, many very qualified. According to Forbes older people are hit with the stereotype that they are less likely to learn, to try new things, and are ‘stuck in their ways’ (another form of ageism). Young people are stuck with a stereotype that they are undependable and do not work hard, thus they may not get a job either. 

Older and younger people both encounter similar forms of ageism that we may not realize. Many younger people report instances where they are criticized for their ‘attitudes’ or ‘tones of voice’. Does this sound familiar to the ‘grumpy old man’ remark? When young people are protesting or saying their opinions online, does this sound similar to others discussing political issues over a cup of coffee at the local restaurant? We of all ages have a lot in common and hit some of the same issues, just in different forms of ageism.

Young people often hear the phrases “you're too young for that, you wouldn’t understand”, “you are not experienced enough”,  or even in Save A Life’s line of work “you're too young to have a real addiction”. The truth is you are not too young to have substance use issues and we want you to feel safe and welcomed here at Save A Life, no matter where you are in your journey. You are not too young to need help, to have run into issues, you are not too young to be angry with life, and you are not too young to feel helpless. We are here for you and all of your feelings and issues are valid. 

The same can be said for a person who is not in their twenties. I have heard many times someone say that it is too late for them to quit drinking (or use other substances) or heard a family member say that it is too late for their loved one. It is never too late to stop abusing substances if you feel like you have a problem. We have resources to hopefully fit your needs, and if we may not have something that would work for you we will help you find something that will work for you. 

No matter your age and any other factors, we are here to help you the best we can. Both staff members have experience in career counseling. We are available during drop in hours to help you write a resume, coach you for an interview, and help you job search. Both staff members who are here during different drop in hours have different areas of interests, expertise, and experience that all go together to help you, a loved one, or an affected other in the season of life you are in.

All of our programs are open to everyone in the community. There is no age limit for creative writing, yoga, just jammin music club, creative art, crafts and coffee chat, or recovery coaching. Al Anon and AA also host their meetings here at the Save A Life building and would welcome any age who turns to AA or AlAnon for help. Anonymous groups are not affiliated with the center or any other organizations or institutions.

You are welcome to all of our programs.