In psychology, the literature frequently highlights the link between mental health and physical health. Likewise, there is a link between perceptions: Depressed individuals are more likely to experience physical health issues or to perceive worse physical health. As well, these issues compound; for example, depression with heart disease is linked to reduced social interactions, compared to either conditions alone (1). Physical health issues also complicate counselling assessments because clients with depression may present with physical pain or other body ailments. Similarly, individuals with chronic physical diseases may be under more psychological stress than otherwise healthy individuals. As such, this increases the risk for depression, as well as social or relationship problems (2).
·"Canadians who report symptoms of depression
also report experiencing three times as many chronic physical conditions
as the general population." (2)
(Canadian Institute for Health Information, 2008)
Taking Action
We are the sum of all our experiences, across the life span. In consideration of genetics and the potential for injury across the life span, not all physical or mental problems and diseases can be prevented. Yet, there is much we can do to prevent illnesses if we have a self-care plan, particularly holistic plans that consider all aspects of well-being (body, mind, spirit; that is, physical, emotional, mental/cognitive, spiritual, and social). These aspects are related, and neglect in one area impacts the others. For example, a diet filled with unhealthy processed foods will eventually impact on cognitive health, and so on.
Motivation for Self-Care
Our life experiences are holistic; they don't occur in isolation. When planning on making changes to improve our health, it is helpful to consider how one change affects the others. For example, going to the gym when tired, with a negative attitude, or when not fully present, will likely not bring the desired benefits.
We are not alone: We can seek resources online or through professional connections!
When making change, the Stages of Change Model (4), as developed by Proschaka & DiClemente, is a helpful tool to revisit. In other words, change might not progress as anticipated as there may be starts, stops, and relapses. Whatever gains we make we can build upon and this can propel us even further toward our goals!
More information is emerging about efforts to make lasting change. This work looks for deep-order transformation and involves level of identity and self-image; it also includes counselling that looks into our ways of being and our thoughts, beliefs, and actions, and moves beyond the idea that changing our mindset alone will lead to lasting change. Instead, lasting change occurs through doing, which changes brainset (3).
References
1. Collingwood, J. (2018, October). Retrieved from PsychCentral:
2. Canadian Mental Health Association (Ontario). (n.d.). The relationship between mental health, mental illness and chronic physical conditions. Retrieved from
3. Hyder, S. (2019). Why your life coach is getting it all backward: 3 hacks for living your best life. Retrieved from https://www.inc.com/shama-hyder/why-your-life-coach-is-getting-it-all-backward-3-hacks-for-living-your-best-life.html
Images
First Nations Information Governance Centre. (2016). Our data, our stories, our future: The national report of the First Nations regional early childhood, education and employment survey (p.10).
Shtull, S. (2019). The five stages of change. Retrieved from https://www.therelationshipblog.net/2016/06/the-five-stages-of-change/
Comments