Mental And Physical Health: Connection Between The Two

Mental Health and Physical Wellness

Experts believe that one is only likely to be fit and active if their mental and physical health is perfect. But, unfortunately, sometimes one can be physically alright but mentally unwell, thus affecting their total wellness. Research shows that people with certain mental illnesses tend to develop preventable physical issues when left untreated. This happens because of different causes, including but not limited to the following:

1. Lack of self-care motivation: When people are unmotivated to care for themselves, consequences can be dire. For instance, failing to take medication can trigger physical complications. To help reverse this, you could consider taking CBD gummies that can help boost your energy. 
2. Genetics: Some of the mental issues that people suffer are purely due to their genetics. This one may not be in anyone's control, and unfortunately, the effects also trickle down to physical ill-health. 
3. Concentration and planning challenges: When you struggle to concentrate or make plans, you will likely suffer from mental issues. Unfortunately, this can affect your ability to schedule and follow through with your medical appointments, resulting in developing physical problems and ailments.
4. Lacking support when changing from unhealthy behaviour: Many people do not realize how important support is. When you lack proper support for your mental issues, you may struggle with making the right changes. In turn, you either have developmental challenges if none existed before or suffer a worse reaction if you are a patient seeking help. Unfortunately, in some cases, health professionals also assume that you are not willing or are incapable of making the necessary changes to aid in your recovery. For instance, when you cannot stop smoking or consuming alcohol when the health practitioners ask you to, they are likely to stop rendering the help you need. Such a drastic lack of support can cause mental health deterioration and even affect your health physically.
5. Lacking appropriate help: Sad to say that sometimes medical practitioners fail to conduct routine checks on mentally unstable patients because they assume that the symptoms they exhibit physically are linked to their mental status. However, one may suffer from physical issues such as blood pressure and sugar level challenges that are unrelated to their mental illness. When these are ignored and not addressed immediately, they affect the person more and lead to worse issues.

However, despite all the possible triggers mentioned above, it helps to know that mental issues can come with physical symptoms simply because the body and brain are not separate entities. Instead, they are linked and, as such, will affect each other. It is therefore not surprising that when one is depressed, to suffer from severe migraines. 

Also, when someone is stressed, they exhibit symptoms such as insomnia, anxiety, fatigue, digestive challenges, and upset stomach, to mention a few. Therefore, it is essential to pay attention to these symptoms and take action, especially if you get a combination of several of them and have difficulties concentrating.

What is the Solution?

Now that you understand the link between the brain(mental health) and physical health, it is crucial to respond when faced with such symptoms. Sometimes, when the problem has gone overboard, it is easy to know it is a mental issue because behavioural symptoms become pronounced. In such cases, visiting a specialist is highly recommended. 

However, when the signs are still mild and manageable, you can also do a few other things besides visiting a doctor. Prioritize taking care of your mental health as the trickle effect could be dire. Below are a few tips that can work in both preventive and curative/management situations.

Always Workout

Find simple and practical exercises that help you clear your mind and also support your physical health. The idea is to keep yourself in a good mood and avoid stress. Research has shown that exercising helps you release good endorphins that support positive energy and mood. Something as simple as a 10-minute brisk walk can be beneficial to a tensed mind. 

Ensure to slot in a few minutes for such a practical yet straightforward workout. Your body will also thank you for it. You can also consider asking a professional trainer or a medical expert to recommend exercises beneficial for mental wellness.

Your Diet Matters

Make sure to feed both the body and brain with valuable nutrients. Invest in taking a balanced diet that supplies your body and brain with beneficial minerals, vitamins, water, and complex carbohydrates. If you are already affected, work with a nutritionist under your doctor's guidance to consume food to uplift your mood and general health. Note that the food people consume can influence the development and prevention of conditions such as dementia.

Avoid Smoking and other Harmful Practises

Listen to your doctor and caregiver and avoid things that are likely to accelerate your condition. Instead, invest your energy in changing your habits and embrace practices that will support your recovery attempts. It is not easy to be healthy, significantly when you are already affected. It takes deliberate action and the desire to want to change to make it happen.

Final Thoughts

No one is immune to mental and physical challenges. However, it is possible to avoid them by taking precautions and taking care of yourself. The bottom line is to take care of yourself.