Physical and mental health consequences

Despite the fact that the mind and body are frequently seen as separate entities, they are actually intertwined. Your physical and mental wellbeing are positively correlated. In consequence, having bad mental health might harm your physical health.

Your general well-being is greatly influenced by your mental health. You can avoid serious medical problems and maintain your health by maintaining a healthy mental state. A study found that being in good psychological health can reduce your risk of having a heart attack or stroke.

On the other hand, bad mental health can lead to physical illness or risky behaviours.

Chronic illnesses- Depression and a variety of chronic diseases have been linked. Diabetes, asthma, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and arthritis are a few of these diseases. Additionally, schizophrenia has been associated with an increased risk of respiratory and cardiac conditions. Dealing with a chronic illness can also be challenging for those who have mental health issues. People who suffer from depression or other mental health issues have a higher risk of dying from cancer or heart disease.

Issues with sleep: Sleeping disorders, including insomnia is more prevalent in those with mental health issues. It might be challenging to fall or remain asleep when you have insomnia. Between 50% and 80% of those who have mental health issues will also have sleep issues. Only 10% to 18% of the population as a whole has sleep issues. While illnesses like melancholy, anxiety, or bipolar disorder may contribute to sleep issues, these issues can also exacerbate pre-existing mental health issues.

Smoking- Smoking is more prevalent among people who have mental health issues than it is among those who do not. People with mental health issues are more likely than non-smokers to smoke more cigarettes. Dopamine levels are lower in people who are depressed. Positive emotions are influenced by dopamine in the brain. Smoking may be used to treat the symptoms of depression because the nicotine in cigarettes causes the neurotransmitter dopamine to be produced. However, because nicotine only provides short-term relaxation, you can experience a persistent desire to smoke, which could result in addiction.

Availability of healthcare- Access to quality healthcare is less likely for those who suffer from mental health issues. People with mental health issues may find it more challenging to maintain their physical health. It may be challenging to seek treatment, remember to take your medication on time, or exercise sufficiently when you have a mental health condition.

 Conditions that may have an impact on mental health as a result of physical illness

Your physical and mental health both influence your mental health. People who already have physical health problems can develop mental health difficulties.

A dermatological ailment known as psoriasis causes painful red blisters on the skin. Depression and severe stress are linked to it. Psoriasis patients encounter emotional and psychological anguish, which has a detrimental effect on their general health and quality of life. Anxiety, stigma, and rejection are the main causes of stress and depression.

Depression or anxiety might also result from getting a cancer diagnosis or having a heart attack. A third of persons with major medical disorders will experience depressive symptoms, such as sadness, difficulty sleeping, and loss of interest in activities.

How to Maintain Your Physical and Mental Health?

You should look after your physical and mental health if you wish to enhance your general well-being.

Here are some suggestions about how to look after your physical and mental health:

Exercise frequently- In addition to helping, you stay physically fit, exercise can also lift your spirits. A daily 10-minute walk can improve your mental clarity and leave you feeling energised and upbeat.

Eat a healthy diet- You may feel better physically and emotionally if you eat a diet that is high in fruits and vegetables and low in processed sweets or fats. Think about collaborating with a competent dietitian to develop a diet strategy that is tailored to your needs.

Avoid using drugs and alcohol- Smoking and drinking can have a harmful impact on your physical and mental health, even though they may temporarily improve your mood.

Get adequate rest- Adults need seven to nine hours of sleep per night to function well. To feel more awake, you can also take a 30-minute nap during the day.

Try some relaxation methods- When you're stressed, deep breathing, meditation, and mental focus can all be helpful.

Create a good mental routine- Instead of concentrating on bad thoughts and occurrences, try to think positively.

Enlist the aid of others- You can feel less worried by conversing with friends or family. Getting assistance from others in trying circumstances can also lighten your load.

Make an appointment to see a psychologist if you're still concerned about your mental health. In Kerala's Shalom Mental Health Center in Palakkad, we have the top psychologist. It is hoped that the addition of a psychiatry department at Kerala's Shalom Institute of Mental Health and Research will enable the integration and balancing of psychological and physical challenges. In keeping with its mission, we seek to interact with society in a variety of ways to ensure that everyone benefits equitably from its mental health programmes.