Your mental health and physical health may be more closely related than you think. When your mental health is suffering, it can lead to a potential increase in chronic disease, or physical health symptoms like fatigue, headaches, and digestive problems.
According to the National Library of Medicine, patients suffering from severe mental disorders have a 10 to 25-year shorter life expectancy, which requires urgent action from healthcare professionals and governments worldwide. Looking into the gut-brain connection and a healthy diet may spark some ideas on reducing mental health symptoms.
Below are some of the potential physical health symptoms that can stem from a mental health condition.
Key Takeaways
- Mental health and physical health are closely related.
- Mental health conditions can lead to obesity, malnutrition, heart disease, and diabetes.
- Poor mental health can negatively impact the immune system.
- Some physical symptoms that can manifest from mental health conditions include muscle tension, fatigue, sleep problems, digestive issues, and headaches.
Increased Risk Of Chronic Disease
Anxiety and depression can create physical wear and tear, affecting various systems within your body. Mental health issues can also lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms when it comes to food and exercise, contributing to either obesity or malnutrition. Either can lead to chronic conditions.
Mental health conditions also contribute to:
- Heart Disease: Depression and anxiety can lead to a higher risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure.
- Diabetes: Depression and stress can increase the risk of developing type 2 Diabetes.
Physical Symptoms That Can Stem From Mental Health Conditions
Depression and anxiety can manifest physical symptoms within your body. Here are some of the physical symptoms that can occur with these and other mental health conditions:
- Muscle Tension: Various mental health conditions can lead to muscle tension and in some cases chronic pain.
- Fatigue: Depression and other mental health conditions can cause a persistent lack of energy that impacts daily activities.
- Sleep Problems: Insomnia and poor sleep quality can be common amongst individuals with mental health conditions.
- Digestive Issues: Mental health issues can wreak havoc on your digestive system with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and other gastrointestinal or stomach issues.
- Headaches: Stress and anxiety can trigger headaches or even migraines in some people.
Caring For Your Mental Health Is Critical
There are more stressors in today’s world than ever before. Things like exercise, walks, yoga, meditation, journaling, a healthy diet, or talking to a professional can help us feel better and keep mental health conditions in check. The team at Dean Aman is here and ready to help, no matter your age or condition.
If you’re ready to talk with a professional, contact us and make an appointment today!