3 Things That Affect Mental and Physical Health
Do you often feel low or have sleeping problems? We all put up with good and bad times. An occasional bad day or stressful week doesn’t influence physical health, while mental issues exert influence on physical health. The link between physical and mental health is stronger than you think. Although mind and body are separate entities, they go hand in hand. Sound mental health positively affects physical health, so the poor mental state functions antagonistically. Sarie Taylor, a trained psychotherapist and anxiety coach, explained:
“It is impossible to separate our mind and our bodies as they are intrinsically linked, they speak to each other and work in harmony.”
Let’s take a deep look at the things that affect your mental and physical health.
Chronic disease
Our immune system mirrors our psychological conditions. Do you know poor mental health attacks your caliber to fight off chronic illness? Depression increases sensitivity, and depressed individuals are more likely to have certain chronic illnesses like cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. In 2017 School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Croatia, disclosed depression is correlated with the poor prospects of chronic diseases.
Sleep problems
Are you not getting enough sleep or having a bad sleep? It‘s not a good sign. Do you know mental health strikes not only physical health but also affects sound sleep. Mentally ill people are more likely to suffer from sleep disorders. According to statistics, 80% of people with mental illness suffer from sleeping problems. While in general people the percentage dropdown to 18%.
Longevity
Longevity gives the most detailed view that mental illness affects human life. People with schizophrenia and mental issues live short life. Depression is another factor that reduces the life expectancy of mentally ill people. Depressed people care less about hygiene, lifestyle, and eating habits that eventually lead toward a short life span.
How can you optimize your physical health and mental health?
You want to improve your mental health and physical health, right. Read more to learn how can you optimize your physical health and mental health?
Exercise
Physical activity keeps you fit and improves your mental wellbeing. It makes the human alert and energetic. According to researchers, during exercise, endorphins are released that produce happiness.
Relaxation
Meditation, yoga, and other relaxing techniques are amazing to reduce stress, depression, or anxiety. These techniques focus on the nervous system and improve psychological and physical fitness.
Diet
A diet full of fruits and vegetables makes you and your digestive system strong. The food we eat causes numerous problems like dementia. Eat healthily and avoid junk food as they cause digestive distress. Eating well improves mood and wellbeing.
Enough sleep
6 to 8 hours of sound sleep keeps humans energetic and alert throughout the day. Lack of sleep incite depression, stress, and mood swings. Get enough sleep regularly, lower caffeine intake, and follow strict bedtime.
Get support
Social circle is a vital aspect of reducing or preventing psychological problems. Talking with friends and family assist in the reduction of stress and anxiety. Don’t hesitate to reach out to others.
Final thoughts
The human mind and body are closely associated. Any mental illness can disturb the normal functioning of the human body. If you’re facing psychological problems, get clinical mental health counseling. We know that poor emotional health can significantly affect our behavior, lifestyle, and health. It is crucial to prioritize your mental health. Follow the mentioned tips to live a happy and healthy life.
