Impact of Mental Health on Physical Well-being
Mental health and physical health are intricately connected, and the impact of one on the other is profound. Mental health affects physical health and lowering stress levels is crucial for overall well-being, particularly considering the rising incidence of early heart attacks.
The importance of physical and mental cleanliness cannot be overstated. It is a holistic approach that encompasses the care of our body, mind, and environment. By taking care of ourselves holistically, we lay the foundation for a happier, healthier, and more harmonious life. Nurturing our physical health ensures that we have the energy and vitality to lead fulfilling lives, while mental cleanliness empowers us to navigate challenges with clarity and emotional resilience.
Mental Health and its importance: Mental health encompasses our emotional, psychological, and social well-being, and is equally important to physical health that affects the way we perceive, think, feel, and manage life.
How does mental health affect one’s physical health, and vice versa?
We are whole beings – our mind and body are connected, constantly communicating with each other. For instance, as soon as we have a negative or anxious thought in our mind, or perception of a potential threat or stressor – we unconsciously begin to contract muscle fibres in our body and start breathing more shallowly than we had been moments before. Our brain picks this message up and sends multiple messages to the body.
Our bodies and minds were not meant for as many ‘stressors’ as we are reacting to nowadays. These reactions take a toll on both our bodies and minds and may lead to certain acute and/or chronic illnesses and diseases.
Our physical health can take a toll on our mental health in many ways. For instance, if we are in pain, injured, diagnosed with an illness, or experiencing negative responses to aging, we may become depressed and anxious due to perceived or real limitations this is placing on our lives, either short or long-term.
The link between Mental and Physical Health Problems The connection between mental and physical health is often viewed in terms of stress. If you’re having problems with your work or family life, then this may start to affect your physical health. For example, a stressed person might eat junk food because they’re too tired to cook.
The connection between mental and physical health is also considered in terms of the immune system since stress affects the body’s ability to fight off infections.
Another way that mental and physical health are connected is through stress and hormone levels. These, in turn, affect different parts of the body, including the brain.
Physical fitness indicates the body’s ability to physically function efficiently, effectively and without injury across a range of situations. Mental fitness indicates the mind's ability to function efficiently and effectively across a range of situations.