The Relationship Between Mental and Physical Health.

Mental and physical health are inextricably linked. There are numerous links between mental health and chronic physical conditions that have a significant impact on people's quality of life, demand for health care and other publicly funded services, and societal consequences. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines health as a complete state of physical, mental, and social well-being, not simply the absence of disease or infirmity.

According to the WHO, “There is no health without mental health.”

Nowhere is the link between mental and physical health more obvious than in chronic conditions.

The following are the links between mental and physical health:

Chronic physical conditions are exacerbated by poor mental health.

People suffering from serious mental illnesses are at a higher risk of developing chronic physical illnesses. People who have chronic physical conditions are more likely to develop poor mental health.

Both chronic physical conditions and mental health are influenced by social determinants of health. Increased physical activity, access to nutritious foods, adequate income, and fostering social inclusion and social support are all important aspects of prevention. This opens up opportunities to improve protective factors and reduce risk factors related to mental and physical health.

Understanding the links between mind and body is the first step in developing strategies to reduce the prevalence of co-occurring conditions and to support those who are already suffering from mental illnesses and chronic physical conditions.