The connection between mental and physical health.
It can be difficult to view mental health or emotional wellbeing as a common component of the human experience. We know mental health is something that everyone struggles with at different points in their life and it’s an experience we all share, regardless of background. Unfortunately, our current culture tends to prioritize physical health and we don’t speak about our emotional health as freely or as regularly. Experiencing mental health issues is not only common, it’s treatable.
We tend to view our emotional health and physical health as two separate and unrelated areas of wellbeing, but the reality is they are closely related. Increases in stress, anxiety, and depression all have significant impacts on our physical health. People may notice changes in sleep, an increase in blood pressure, increases in our blood sugar, or more fatigue during the day. There are a lot of physical symptoms that impact our overall wellbeing and how we’re able to function through the day.
Ignoring the impact our emotional health is having on our physical wellbeing allows the symptoms we experience to escalate and increase over time. For instance, say someone is having difficulties with sleep and increased fatigue throughout the day. In time, that’s going to result in us being more irritable and increased anxiety, which will then further contribute to poor sleep, and continue to exacerbate the issue. Over time, it becomes a vicious cycle with a greater impact.
If you are experiencing symptoms that are preventing you from doing the things that are meaningful to you, it’s time to reach out for help. Lean into trusted relationships and talk with people who will support you. That may be a friend, family member, primary care provider, our counselor. As a caregiver, many support resources are available to you, including integrated providers within many of our primary care offices. If you’re unsure of where or how to start this journey, that may be an easy way to get connected with help.
Take a few minutes to reflect on where you’re at with your mental wellbeing and how your physical symptoms may be connected to your emotional health. Then, if you feel you need to, seek out and get the resources you need. You’re not alone in this journey of finding healing and connection.