Mental and physical health go hand in hand. In fact, research shows that people with a mental health problem have a higher likelihood of developing a preventable physical health condition like heart disease, according to the Mental Health Foundation. One in three individuals with a long-term physical health condition also has a mental health problem, usually anxiety or depression.
Mental Health America says that nearly one in five American adults will experience a diagnosable mental health condition in a given year.
Addressing one can type of health can improve the other, and vice versa. Counseling in Walnut Creek CA can help. Today we’ll explore the link between mental and physical health, and the reasons why there is a connection between the two.
Factors Affecting the Link Between Mental and Physical Health
The link between mental and physical health can exist for a variety of reasons, including:
- Genetics: The genes that contribute to your likelihood of developing a mental health condition can also play a role in the development of physical health problems.
- Low motivation: Some mental health problems or medications impact your motivation and energy levels, decreasing the chance that you will take good care of yourself.
- Difficulty concentrating and planning: When your mental health challenges impact your ability to concentrate, it is more difficult to schedule and attend medical appointments.
- Lack of support for unhealthy behavior changes – Due to your mental health challenges, doctors may assume you are not capable or willing to make changes in your lifestyle, and therefore don’t as readily offer support or encouragement to quit drinking or smoking, for instance.
- At a disadvantage to receiving medical help – Individuals with mental health conditions are less likely to get routine checkups (cholesterol, blood pressure, weight) that could detect physical health symptoms earlier. That’s because healthcare professionals often assume physical symptoms are part of your mental health condition and vice versa, and fail to look into them further.
How Do Mental Health Problems Manifest Themselves Into the Physical?
Many mental health problems manifest themselves in physical symptoms. It’s tough sometimes for our bodies and minds to make that separation, so the line becomes blurred. That’s why it’s so difficult for healthcare professionals to make the connection and treat both halves of the equation.
For instance, physical symptoms of depression can include:
- Pain
- Digestive issues
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Stroke
Physical symptoms of anxiety can include:
- Rapid heartbeat
- Muscle tension
- High blood sugar
- Difficulty sleeping
- Lower immunity
- Upset stomach
- Bowel problems
- Weight gain
- Sexual problems
Practicing Self-Care
Having said all that, it’s important to note that just because you have a mental health problem does not necessarily mean you will automatically develop a physical one. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to ensure you stay physically well.
- Get regular exercise: Physical activity is the best way to not only stay in good physical health but to improve your mental wellbeing as well. Research shows that exercising releases feel-good chemicals, known as endorphins, in the brain. It doesn’t have to be a marathon session at the gym, either. Just a 10-minute brisk walk can improve mood, energy, and alertness. In addition, engaging in an activity you enjoy, such as gardening or golfing, can improve quality of life, lower your stress, give you a sense of purpose, and help you remain focused.
- Eat well: Eating a balanced diet can improve your wellbeing and mood. Be sure to consume plenty of proteins, essential fats, vitamins, minerals, complex carbohydrates, and water. The food we eat influences the development of many mental health conditions, from dementia to depression.
- Nix the smoking: Depending on how much you smoke, tobacco use can lead to mental health side effects such as addiction, stress, schizophrenia, and depression.
- Stay on top of regular doctor visits: To maintain physical health, keep up with routine checks from your healthcare providers. Attend counseling to help you improve the mental health side of things, as well. It’s important to keep a balance between the two. Sometimes it’s a very fine line, but one that must be walked.
It’s also important to note that mental health can change over time, and this will depend on many factors. Mental health can be impacted when the demands placed on an individual start to exceed their coping abilities and resources. For example, you could experience poor mental health if you work long hours, care for an aging relative, or experience economic hardship, according to the CDC.
In the end, getting help for both pieces of the puzzle is critical.
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Schedule your free consultation with Growing Together Preventive & Psychological Services today. We offer a variety of therapy services throughout Danville CA and beyond, catering to individuals, groups, families, couples, and children.
