In the present global economic downturn and its resultant effect on people, now, is the time for us as a people to maintain our overall wellbeing, it is important to take care of our
physical and mental health. It is vital to regularly check our physical health and seek medical attention for any concerns. Even in the presence of stigmatisation, it is important
to seek professional help if you are experiencing mental health problems.
Do remember to engage in activities that promote relaxation, such as exercise, meditation, and spending time in nature. Try as much as possible to eat a balanced diet and get enough sleep. Please, do connect with friends, family, or support/religious groups and take proactive steps to manage your physical health, such as following treatment plans and making healthy lifestyle choices.
According to the World Health Organisation (2022), Mental health is a basic human right, crucial to personal, community and socioeconomic development. It enables people to cope with the stresses of life, realise their abilities, learn and work well, and contribute to their community. It is an integral component of health and well-being that underpins our individual and collective abilities to make decisions, build relationships and shape the world we live in.
The other, which most people commonly give attention to, our physical health refers to the overall state of the body with its multifaceted concept that involves the body’s structural, functional, and physiological aspects.
Our mental and physical health are deeply intertwined, as poor mental health can lead to physical health problems, and vice versa, impacting overall well-being and increasing the risk of chronic diseases.
Mental health conditions like depression and anxiety can increase the risk of developing chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
Mental health problems can lead to unhealthy lifestyle choices, such as poor diet, lack of physical activity, and substance abuse, which further negatively impact physical health. Individuals with mental health conditions may find it challenging to adhere to treatment plans for physical illnesses, leading to poorer outcomes. Mental health problems can manifest as physical symptoms, such as headaches, stomachaches, and fatigue (psychosomatic conditions).
Mental health conditions can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to insomnia and other sleep disorders, which can negatively impact physical health.
Chronic physical illnesses can lead to stress, anxiety, and depression. Physical health problems can limit social activities and lead to social isolation, which can negatively impact mental health.
Living with a chronic illness can lead to feelings of low self-esteem and a diminished sense of control. Chronic pain and fatigue can significantly impact mental well-being. Some medications used to treat physical illnesses can have side effects that negatively impact mental health. Examples of Conditions: Depression has been linked to many chronic illnesses, including diabetes, asthma, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and arthritis. Schizophrenia (severe mental illness) has also been linked to a higher risk of heart and respiratory diseases. People with severe mental illness often have poorer physical health than the general population and are more likely to die from preventable physical illnesses.
Research has shown a link between mental illnesses and certain physical illnesses such as cancer, diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and epilepsy. Remember, when we improve our health behaviours, it will both help us to live longer, healthier lives, and reduce the demand for and delays in treatment and care.
Prince Kemi Adefarakan,
BSc Information Management, MBA
Oil & Gas, MSc Mental Health Nursing
Senior Community Mental Health Nurse
Registered Mental Health Nurse (RMHN).
