How Your Mental Health Affects Your Physical Health

The mind and body are often considered separate entities. When we think of staying healthy, usually we think of going to the gym and getting in shape. However, mental health and physical health are more connected than you might think. Mental health has a direct impact on physical health, and physical health has a direct impact on mental health. Although mental health is frequently misunderstood, there is an increasing awareness of its physical symptoms and treatment.

UNDERSTANDING MENTAL HEALTH

Contrary to popular belief, mental illness is not rare. The Mayo Clinic reports that nearly one in five adults has a mental illness in any given year. Mental illness ranges widely in issue and severity, from anxiety and depression to eating disorders and schizophrenia.

Any given mental illness can affect your body’s ability to function properly and may even reduce life expectancy. A 2014 study from Oxford University found that several mental illnesses can reduce life expectancy by up to 20 years, the equivalent of heavy smoking.

While mental illness is considered a serious issue today, mental health is often overlooked among other physical health issues.

HOW MENTAL HEALTH AFFECTS PHYSICAL HEALTH

The tendency to separate mental and physical illness has become a prominent problem when it comes to understanding overall health. Mental health problems have physical consequences, and a variety of mental illnesses worsen with physical illnesses.

Psoriasis is an example of this principle. Psoriasis is an auto-immune condition commonly triggered by stress. The condition leads to anxiety and increased stress, which, in turn, makes the psoriasis flare up, leading to more stress — a vicious, relentless cycle between the mind and body. 

However, understanding the link between mental health and physical health is paving the way for positive change. Patients with psoriasis who start treatment for depression or anxiety often discover that their psoriasis symptoms begin to clear up. Inversely, successful treatment of psoriasis is associated with reduced depressive signs and symptoms.

Positive outcomes like this can be found in several cases. From cancer patients to individuals with bipolar disorder, studies show that treating mental issues can solve other problems. It’s increasingly apparent that the more we understand about our mental health, the better our physical health is, and vice versa.

It’s clear that mental and physical health go hand-in-hand. Here are some ways to maintain your mental health, which could positively impact your physical well-being:

IMPROVING YOUR MENTAL AND PHYSICAL HEALTH

EXERCISE

Often considered just a physical activity, regular exercise has been proven to increase the release of feel-good chemicals, known as endorphins, in the brain. The release of endorphins increases mental alertness, energy, and leads to mood enhancement. Exercise improves mental health by reducing levels of depression and anxiety. While exercise should take place on a regular basis, it doesn’t need to be overly intense. Even a short, brisk 10-minute walk can have a positive impact on your mental and physical well-being.

DIET

In order to maintain a healthy mind and body, proper nutrition is essential. Chances of increased levels of anxiety and depression are multiplied in people with a poor diet. In order to avoid mental and physical consequences of poor nutrition, try to incorporate healthy proteins, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, vitamins, minerals, and plenty of water into your diet. Avoid foods made with added sugars or flours, processed meats, and butter. When it comes to our diet, quality is much more important than quantity.

PROPER SLEEP

Poor sleep habits can be directly linked to stress, anxiety, and depression. The National Sleep Foundation recommends that adults should get an average of 7-9 hours of sleep every night. If you’re having trouble getting enough sleep at night, try the following:

  • Relax before bed
  • Set a schedule for bedtime
  • Decrease caffeine intake
  • Don’t use screens before bed

GET HELP

Don’t wait to get professional help. It’s common for people experiencing mental health issues to go undiagnosed. That not only worsens mental health, but can affect your physical health also. While a change in diet and exercising can help some improve their mental health, others may need medication or counseling for positive results.

Fortunately, the specialists at the Tanner Clinic understand the importance of maintaining both a healthy body and a healthy mind. Whether you need treatment for symptoms of mental illness or a severe physical condition, the Tanner Clinic is the perfect medical center for you. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and improve your overall health.