The Hidden Link Between Physical and Mental Well-Being
Many of us tend to compartmentalise our physical and mental well-being, often treating them as separate entities. Yet, it is essential to recognise that these two aspects of our health are deeply interconnected, and how they interact can significantly influence our overall sense of well-being.
A study published on The King’s Fund and Centre for Mental Health in 2012[1] has unveiled a compelling correlation between our physical and mental health: about 30% of individuals that face chronic physical health ailments also grapple with mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression. To more deeply understand this connection, let us delve deeper into the fundamental relationship between mental and physical well-being.
The Link Between Mental and Physical Health
Recent research has surfaced a compelling link of the bi-directional relationship between our mental and physical health. A decline in physical health can increase the likelihood of mental health challenges, and vice versa.
A study conducted by Volpato et al. in 2021[2] examined patients dealing with severe pulmonary conditions. Almost half of them reported having anxiety and depression as comorbidities that lead to higher rates of hospitalisations and worse clinical outcomes. This study is just one of many that hint at the crucial interplay between our physical and emotional well-being.
Professor David Goldberg, from the Institute of Psychiatry in London, emphasises this link. He notes that individuals grappling with chronic ailments experience emotional distress at nearly three times the typical rate. This underscores the intricate relationship between chronic physical conditions and mental health, particularly concerning emotional well-being. It’s a two-way street—not only are many persistent physical conditions linked to a higher risk of emotional distress, but emotional distress can also precede the onset of specific chronic health conditions.
Further, the combined impact of physical health challenges and psycho-emotional issues on overall wellness is cumulative. Consider the impact of the co-existence of depression and heart disease—it results in twice the reduction in social interaction compared to when either condition stands alone. The key takeaway here is the importance of nurturing both body and mind to optimize for overall wellbeing.
Conditions That Can Be Impacted by Mental Health
The importance of mental health goes far beyond our psychology and emotions; it extends its influence into our physical well-being. Take, for instance, psoriasis, a chronic auto-immune condition known for its disruptive sores, often triggered by stress. Making lifestyle adjustments to reduce stress can be highly advantageous when managing a psoriasis diagnosis. And it does not stop there; the reach of mental well-being extends to various other health conditions, including diabetes and dementia.
A report compiled by the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Diabetes (APPG Diabetes)[3] in the United Kingdom tells us that approximately four out of every ten individuals with diabetes will also struggle with emotional stress. This stress can significantly impact their ability to manage their condition, which requires a commitment to change their lifestyle and behaviours. Fluctuations in blood glucose levels can also lead to anxiety, impacting one’s overall mood and experience of life.
Research studies on dementia by Blondell et. al. in 2014[4] and Cao, L. et al. in 2015[5] have revealed that a healthy lifestyle can reduce one’s risk of developing the condition, even for those with a higher genetic predisposition. Some lifestyle adjustments that are considered helpful in preventing dementia include keeping one’s mind engaged with puzzles and games, exploring the soothing effects of aromatherapy and music therapy, and making environmental adaptations around the home.
There is a compelling case to be made based on these recent studies that whether we are dealing with psoriasis, diabetes, or dementia, finding the balance between both mental and physical health is key.
Prioritising Mental Health Care
Professor David Goldberg is a firm believer in the value of addressing depression early. Left untreated, depression can deepen, whereas effective mental health treatment can alleviate symptoms and elevate our quality of life. This advice is particularly relevant for those grappling with physical health challenges.
A good mental health treatment plan begins with the least intrusive and most effective intervention. For those of us experiencing milder forms of depression, making simple lifestyle adjustments can have a profound impact. Recommendations include tailored guidance on physical activity and sleep, taking into account any physical limitations.
In addition to these lifestyle changes, cognitive-behavioural therapies are first line therapies that are well supported by research to be highly effective in managing anxiety and depression. They offer valuable insights and tools to improve mental well-being. In situations where depression is severe, the consideration of antidepressant medications is a viable option. It is all about finding the right path for each individual’s unique journey towards better mental health.
In Closing
There is a compelling link between mental and physical health. Poor mental health can act as a risk factor for chronic physical ailments. In turn, chronic physical conditions can predispose individuals to mental health issues. To truly enhance your overall well-being, it is imperative to not only be mindful of your physical health but also to nurture your mental well-being.
Our therapists understand the unique challenges of finding balance between our mental and physical health in an increasing stressful and busy world. If you are situated in Singapore, reach out to us today to learn more about how depression and anxiety therapy can help with mental health and wellbeing. Read more about our therapy fees here. Or reach out to schedule an appointment.
References
Mental health. The King’s Fund. (2012). https://www.kingsfund.org.uk/projects/time-think-differently/trends-disease-and-disability-mental-physical-health
Volpato, E., Toniolo, S., Pagnini, F., & Banfi, P. (2021). The relationship between anxiety, depression and treatment adherence in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A systematic review. International Journal of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Volume 16, 2001–2021. https://doi.org/10.2147/copd.s313841
All-Party Parliamentary Group for Diabetes (APPG Diabetes). (2018). Diabetes and Mental Health. https://www.diabetes.org.uk/resources-s3/2018-08/Diabetes%20and%20Mental%20Health%20%28PDF%2C%205.7MB%29.pdf
Blondell, S. J., Hammersley-Mather, R., & Veerman, J. L. (2014). Does physical activity prevent cognitive decline and dementia?: A systematic review and meta-analysis of longitudinal studies. BMC Public Health, 14(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-2458-14-510
Cao, L., Tan, L., Wang, H.-F., Jiang, T., Zhu, X.-C., Lu, H., Tan, M.-S., & Yu, J.-T. (2015). Dietary patterns and risk of dementia: A systematic review and meta-analysis of Cohort studies. Molecular Neurobiology, 53(9), 6144–6154. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12035-015-9516-4
[1] https://www.kingsfund.org.uk/projects/time-think-differently/trends-disease-and-disability-mental-physical-health
[2] https://doi.org/10.2147%2FCOPD.S313841
[3] https://www.diabetes.org.uk/resources-s3/2018-08/Diabetes%20and%20Mental%20Health%20%28PDF%2C%205.7MB%29.pdf
