InBody USA - Improve Your Mental Health By Focusing on Physical Health
February 19, 2020
Disclaimer: This article should not substitute professional medical advice. When starting a new diet or exercise plan, always consult your physician first. In relation to mental/behavioral health, please consult a licensed medical professional before starting or stopping any type of medication or making any lifestyle changes.
Making small behavioral changes in reducing factors such as smoking, poor nutrition, and physical activity will likely improve your general well-being.
Studies have shown that diets that include healthy, whole foods can improve mental and physical well-being.
Self-care is an important factor in improving and maintaining your overall health. Arm yourself with your own Wellness Toolkit to manage your physical, emotional, and mental health.
Improving your physical health is important in reducing the incidence of chronic conditions such as diabetes Type II, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease, but can it also play a role in improving your mental health?
The life expectancy of people struggling with mental illness is significantly reduced by one to two decades compared with those who address and treat their mental health. Additionally, those who are overweight and obese have been reported to have an increase in depressive syndromes compared to those at an otherwise healthy weight.
The term, “mental health”, once a taboo subject, has now made its way to the main stage and is one of the most discussed topics in healthcare. Your primary care doctor has likely discussed mental health and depression with you at your annual checkup. Your company’s wellness plan most likely has an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) that includes confidential assessments and counseling services.
Depression and Increased Weight The association between obesity and depressive disorders is common and, unfortunately, a cyclical trap. Perceived negative body image and insecurities can lead to unhealthy behaviors such as disordered eating, low self-esteem, and increased mental stress.
Similarly, studies have been performed to identify whether psychological illnesses, such as depression, can cause those individuals at an otherwise healthy weight to have an increased chance of becoming overweight or obese. Depressive symptoms can negatively impact your physical health through the development of eating disorders and increased isolation, which can lead to decreased physical activity.</