There has always been a connection between mental health and physical health. However, recently, experts have taken the time to research this connection. Accordingly, they have discovered that taking care of your mental health is equally as important as taking care of your physical health. If you need assistance to ensure that both can thrive, contact Promises Behavioral Health. We offer a wide range of treatment programs to help you get your mental and physical health back on track. To learn more about our programs, reach out to Promises Behavioral Health today.
What Does the Research Say About the Connection Between Mental Health and Physical Health?
Mental health is an important focus in the medical world as it is an integral part of overall physical health. Mental health professionals tried to emphasize this point at the Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar on World Mental Health Day. The Peninsula Qatar posted an article highlighting the event. Dr. Ziad Kronfol, associate professor of psychiatry at WCMC-Q, led a discussion on the relationship between depression and physical health at the World Mental Health Day event. “Mental health disorders occur at all stages of life and in all cultures,” said Dr. Kronfol. “Depression, in particular, is a leading cause of disability worldwide. Research studies have shown that depression is a common complication of other chronic diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, arthritis or kidney disease.”
By treating co-existing depression, an individual’s overall medical condition and quality of life can be improved. Dr. Kronfol highlighted that new medications are available now that successfully treat a variety of mental conditions. At the same time, there has been great progress in psychotherapeutic treatments, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy. “By increasing awareness of the disorder and the available treatments, we can reduce much unnecessary suffering around the world,” said Dr. Kronfol.
In addition, Patti Collins, a licensed professional counselor, discussed anxiety and its effect on performance. She noted that strategies are available to help people manage stress and reduce anxiety. She recommends strategies including eating a healthy diet, regular exercise and plenty of sleep. Individuals have also had success with stress and anxiety management by conducting deep abdominal breathing and replacing negative thoughts with more positive, believable thoughts.
What Kinds of Treatments Can Help?
One significant aspect of treating both mental health and physical health is managing addiction. People may struggle with addictions to all types of substances or actions. Unfortunately, that condition takes its toll on both aspects of a person’s health. For instance, alcohol addiction can lead to many consequences, including:
- Liver disease
- Hepatitis
- Ovarian, prostate, or breast cancer
- Heart disease
- Pancreatitis
These are only a few of the physical effects of long term alcohol use. It can also lead to anxiety and depression. In order to properly take care of both your mental and physical health, it is critical to seek treatment if you have an addiction. Otherwise, it can lead to significant problems with both your mental health and physical health.
At Promises Behavioral Health, we offer a variety of treatment options for every person. We also tailor each person’s treatment to their unique needs, which gives you an excellent chance for long-term recovery. In addition, we can address both your addiction and any mental conditions you may have, using evidence-based and holistic treatments. A combination of these methods can provide healing for both your mental health and physical health. Some of our treatment methods include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Dialectical behavior therapy
- Yoga therapy
- Group therapy
- Individual therapy
You can recover from both addiction and mental health issues. To learn more about your treatment options, contact Promises Behavioral Health today at 844.875.5609.