Mental health and physical health are no longer viewed as separate parts of a person’s well-being. Because all systems within the human body are connected, they all fall under the same umbrella of “health.”
The mind and body are in constant communication, and both are affected by mental health conditions. Mental health not only affects brain function, but also triggers biological responses that affect how you feel physically.
Let’s take a look at how mental health conditions impact how we feel and function, and how quality of life can be affected when these conditions are left untreated.
How Mental Health Affects the Mind
Mental health conditions alter brain function, both structurally and chemically. This affects how you process thoughts, respond to stress, and interact with people.
- Poor concentration and memory. Anxiety, depression, and chronic stress can lead to cognitive decline. This may include difficulty with focus, information retention, decision-making, and everyday tasks.
- Negative emotions. Conditions like depression affect neurotransmitter communication. This can cause low levels of serotonin and dopamine, the “happy hormones” that regulate emotions and give you the motivation and focus to move forward. When they’re in short supply, you may experience mood swings, irritability, sadness, loss of pleasure, low self-esteem, and hopelessness.
- Feelings of fear and danger. Chronic anxiety overstimulates the amygdala, the brain’s alarm system that looks for possible threats around you. This keeps you in a perpetual state of fear and danger and triggers the fight-or-flight response to stress.
How Mental Health Affects the Body
Mental health conditions can trigger a biological response that could cause chronic physical pain and increased risk of serious health problems.
- Cardiovascular system. High levels of cortisol and adrenaline can tighten blood vessels, which can cause high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, and increased risk of stroke.
- Gastrointestinal system. We’ve all had that feeling of knots in the stomach, right? Stress can contribute to nausea, indigestion, changes in appetite and weight, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms.
- Muscular system. A chronic fight-or-flight stress response can keep muscles from relaxing. This can cause muscle aches and fatigue, tension headaches, and difficulty sleeping.
- Immune system. Elevated stress hormones make it more difficult for the body to fight disease and heal. This increases the risk of infections and longer-lasting illnesses.
If you or someone you know is showing signs of mental health challenges, we offer a safe space to share your thoughts and feelings in a supportive, judgement-free setting. To schedule an appointment at Oaks Integrated Care, contact us by calling 1-800-963-3377.
