Influence of Mental Health on Physical Well-Being
By zp7op | Contributor
Research indicates that anxiety, stress, and depression can adversely affect physical health and may even elevate the risk of heart disease and stroke.
The American Heart Association, a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to heart and brain health, has recognized a significant connection between mental, cardiovascular, and overall physical health in its scientific statement titled “Psychological Health, Well-Being and the Mind-Heart-Body Connection.”
“Studies have distinctly shown that negative psychological factors, personality traits, and mental health disorders can detrimentally affect cardiovascular health,” stated Dr. Glenn N. Levine, M.D., FAHA, the volunteer chair of the statement writing committee, a master clinician and professor of medicine at Baylor College of Medicine, and chief of the cardiology section at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center. “The body’s biological response to stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges can physically manifest through irregular heart rates, elevated blood pressure, and inflammation. Poor psychological health is also linked with behaviors that increase the risk of heart disease and stroke, such as smoking, lower exercise levels, unhealthy eating habits, obesity, and non-adherence to prescribed medications.”
Research has revealed that certain populations, including people of color, may experience heightened risks of adverse health effects due to chronic stress, anxiety, and depression stemming from psychosocial stressors, particularly those associated with social and economic inequality, discrimination, systemic racism, and other societal factors. A study in the “Journal of the American Heart Association” found that U.S. adults feeling significantly discriminated against at work showed a higher risk of developing hypertension compared to those experiencing minimal workplace discrimination.
“Mental health encompasses our emotional, psychological, and social well-being,” Levine explained. “It influences how we think, feel, and act, and shapes how we manage stress, interact with others, and make decisions. Engaging in mindfulness practices in various forms can enhance awareness and control over emotional responses to everyday experiences.”
Tips for Enhancing Your Mind-Heart-Body Connection
Consider the following tips from Levine to support your mental and physical health:
- Practice mediation regularly. Simple acts like spending time in nature or sitting quietly while focusing on your breath can be beneficial.
- Ensure adequate, restful sleep. Establish a consistent bedtime, minimize electronic use as bedtime approaches, and create a morning routine.
- Form connections and maintain relationships. Actively reach out to family and friends, or participate in activities to meet new people.
- Engage in mindful movement. Gentle practices such as yoga and Tai Chi can be done nearly anywhere without special equipment, helping to relax both mind and body.
- Spend time with pets. Companion animals can reduce stress responses and encourage more physical activity.
- Stay physically active. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise weekly; this can help alleviate tension, anxiety, and depression.
“When we strive to reduce negative aspects of psychological health, we are promoting an overall positive and healthy state of being.”
— Glenn N. Levine, M.D., FAHA
“Wellness involves more than just the absence of illness,” Levine noted. “It is a proactive journey toward a healthier, more enjoyable, and fulfilling life. By working to improve negative elements of psychological health, we foster a more positive and healthy existence.”
Photo courtesy of Getty Images.
