Long-term physical conditions and mental health (2024)

FAQs

How does long-term physical health condition affect mental health? ›

However, a long-term physical illness or a life-long or chronic condition, like diabetes, is more likely to lead to: stress, worry or anxiety, especially over appointments or test results. low self-esteem, or feelings around discrimination or stigma.

On the other hand, poor mental health can lead to poor physical health or harmful behaviors. Chronic diseases. Depression has been linked to many chronic illnesses. These illnesses include diabetes, asthma, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and arthritis.

Some chronic physical conditions can cause high blood sugar levels and disrupt the circulation of blood, which can impact brain function. People living with chronic physical conditions often experience emotional stress and chronic pain, which are both associated with the development of depression and anxiety.

Physical health problems significantly increase our risk of developing mental health problems, and vice versa. Nearly one in three people with a long-term physical health condition also has a mental health problem, most often depression or anxiety.

Physical factors such as sleep quality, nutrition, exercise, and chronic illness can all significantly impact mental health. Sleep deprivation, for example, can lead to symptoms of depression and anxiety. Regular exercise is proven to enhance mood and reduce stress levels.

Changes in appetite, weight, energy levels, sleep patterns, physical mobility, mood, concentration, motivation, and behavior are early indicators of physical and mental health deterioration.

physical causes – for example, a head injury or a neurological condition such as epilepsy can have an impact on your behaviour and mood. (It's important to rule out potential physical causes before seeking further treatment for a mental health problem).

They have higher rates of cardiovascular disease (such as heart disease and stroke), diabetes, obesity and lung conditions (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, and asthma). They are also more likely to have multiple physical health conditions than the general population.

How does chronic illness affect a person psychologically? ›

People who have a chronic disease are at a higher risk of developing depression. Depression can be triggered by: Anxiety, stress, or other challenges caused by a chronic disease.

Mental and physical health rely heavily on each other. Our minds and bodies are connected. If you have problems with one, you're likely to have problems with the other. Research shows that those with mental health problems are more likely to have a preventable physical health condition like heart disease.

Common mental issues that people with a physical disability may experience include: Stress and anxiety. Depression. Posttraumatic stress disorder ( PTSD)

Research shows that chronic stress is associated with such health issues as muscle tension, digestive problems, headaches, weight gain or loss, trouble sleeping, heart disease, susceptibility to cancer, high blood pressure, and stroke.

Chronic illnesses have disease-specific symptoms, but may also bring invisible symptoms like pain, fatigue and mood disorders. Pain and fatigue may become a frequent part of your day. Along with your illness, you probably have certain things you have to do take care of yourself, like take medicine or do exercises.