How Poor Mental Health Can Lead to Physical Health Problems
It is well known that poor physical health can negatively impact mental health. The reverse is also true. Poor mental health can lead to the development of physical health problems. The relationship between mental and physical health is complex. Understanding the mechanisms behind it is essential. It can help medical experts provide better care for their patients.
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How Stress Impacts Physical Health
Chronic stress is linked to poor mental health. At times, a person experiences constant stressors and can't find relief. It strains both their mind and body. Stress triggers the release of hormones like cortisol into the bloodstream. These hormones can be helpful in small bursts.
Prolonged elevation of cortisol weakens the immune system over time. A suppressed immune system leaves the body vulnerable. You get more frequent illnesses like cold and flu viruses. Stress hormones raise blood pressure and blood sugar levels. This increases the risk for other physical conditions. For example, heart disease, strokes, and diabetes. Patients with poor mental health face a higher risk. They are more prone to developing these and other physical ailments.
Lifestyle Factors
Mental illness often coincides with unhealthy lifestyle habits. These directly impact physical health. Overeating and poor diet choices are typical of poor mental health. They derive from anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. And this extends to the use of alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drugs. These are also more prevalent among those with untreated mental illness.
These unhealthy coping mechanisms are used to self-medicate. They try to distress mental symptoms. But, they place people at much higher risk for many conditions. These include obesity, nutritional deficiencies and liver disease. Or contribute to cancer, breathing illness, and cardiac disease.
Plus, mental health conditions cause a lack of sleep and exercise. These lifestyle factors produce cumulative damage over time. They further contribute to poor mental health.
Medication for Poor Mental Health: Side Effects
Prescription medications can also take a toll on physical health. Antidepressants and mood stabilizers often have adverse side effects. These include rapid weight gain and blood sugar elevation. They can cause digestive issues, diabetes and heart problems. Certain medications also cause motor impairment, drowsiness, and tremors.
Older patients are very vulnerable to medication side effects. This can impact their physical condition. Providers need to be aware of these potential risks. And monitor patients closely. Adjustments to dosing or alternative drug options may be necessary.
Barriers to Seeking Medical Care for Poor Mental Health
Mental illness can make it hard to get good healthcare. Some experience low motivation, tiredness, and isolation. These symptoms can lead people to neglect their physical health. They may skip annual checkups, diagnostic tests, or medications. This neglect is meant to manage existing health problems. Such actions negatively contribute to their poor mental health.
Anxiety and fear about medical visits keep some people away. There is a stigma around mental health. This makes it hard for people to talk honestly with their doctors. Getting better depends on talking about any mental health symptoms. Doctors and nurses need to be kind and patient. So they can genuinely help people overcome these challenges.
Holistic Approaches to Treat Poor Mental Health
There is a link between Mental and physical health. So we should treat both at the same time. Instead of just treating obvious symptoms, providers need to find the actual cause. For example, depression may cause fatigue and pain. So they would not be just physical problems.
Support from counsellors and lifestyle changes are key. Social workers, dieticians and fitness coaches can offer valuable help. A mental health team approach is best. So they can face both psychological and physical health challenges.
Speak with a mental health nurse practitioner who has the relevant expertise. They may have gained these certificates by studying online PMHNP post masters certificate programs. These experts receive specialized training. So they can care for patients from a whole-person perspective.
Seeking Regular Preventative Care for Poor Mental Health
Everyone, even those with good mental health, needs regular checkups. We all need screenings and shots. But when you're dealing with mental health issues, it can be even more challenging. And you forget physical health. That's where your doctor comes in. They can keep an eye out for any problems and make sure you get the proper care. A good relationship with your doctor is essential. It makes it easier for them to spot changes in your health.
Family and friends can also help by checking in. They can take you to appointments and advocate when necessary. These preventative measures can help a lot. They help prevent treatable conditions from becoming more serious.
The mind and body share a delicate relationship. Poor mental health often leads to problems in the other. Stress can manifest physically. Unhealthy behaviours and medication side effects also contribute. Avoiding care is another factor in poor mental health status.
Addressing both mental and physical health greatly improves recovery. A holistic approach and professional help can guide patients back to wellness.