Mental Health: Key to a Healthy Body
Eating healthy and regular exercise can do much for your body. But what about your mental health? Can the state of our minds really affect our physical health? Simply, yes.
According to the World Health Organization, health refers to the “state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” Yes, both physical and mental well-being contribute to overall health. Moreover, many studies exist linking the health of the mind to the health of the body. Let’s consider some common mental health problems and their effect on the body.
Stress and High Blood Pressure
Busy workloads, financial pressures, and family strife often put people under a lot of stress. When undergoing stressful situations, the body releases certain hormones into the bloodstream. This causes the heart to beat faster, thus increasing blood pressure. The effects of this response can be detrimental, especially for those who already struggle with chronic high blood pressure. In fact, high blood pressure levels can put one at greater risk of a heart attack or stroke. What can be done? Take steps to properly address current problems. Moreover, avoid situations, environments, and people who cause unnecessary stress.
Depression and Weight Fluctuation
Depression is one of the most common mental illnesses in America. Among many things, it can lead to an onslaught of weight-related problems. How so? If a depressed person begins overeating as a coping mechanism, this can lead to obesity and other stomach problems. On the other hand, a depressed person may instead experience a loss of appetite, which can result in unprecedented weight loss and malnutrition. If you or someone you know has depression, seek the help of family, friends, and medical professionals for practical assistance.
Positive Thinking and Successful Dieting
The primary goal of our website is to promote a healthy lifestyle through clean eating and a balanced exercise routine. However, the key to achieving this depends on one’s mindset. Yes, positive thinking can increase one’s productivity and motivation, which are necessary to maintain any diet or exercise plan.
Ultimately, one should not overlook the importance of mental health and its positive and negative effects on the body.