Previously, much wasn’t known about the connection between the mind and body. Today, the average person is well aware that poor mental health has implications on physical wellbeing too. However, you might not understand the extent to which your brain affects your body as a whole. And, until you do, you will never be able to find the perfect balance between your mental and physical health. After all, severe mental illnesses can reduce your life expectancy by two decades, so it’s essential to learn more.

Here are the side-effects poor mental health can have on your entire body in the short, medium, and long-term.

Increased Risk Of Heart Disease

The stats on heart disease in the UK are already pretty shocking. One of the biggest killers in the country and the world, an estimated one million people deal with heart failure, an increase of 23% from the 1970s. However, people that suffer from bipolar and schizophrenia might be more vulnerable. Studies suggest that if you have these mental health conditions, the chances of having cardiovascular disease increase by more than 50%. That’s why it’s imperative to schedule regular checkups with your doctor and ensure you eat a healthy, balanced diet.

Higher Chance Of Contracting Diabetes

Diabetes has become an illness that lots of people treat with less and less respect. Because it’s easier to deal with, and it’s not a death sentence, it’s as if it’s not a problem. Of course, diabetes affects everything from your heart health and immune system, so it’s no laughing matter. It might not be a surprise, but it’s tempting to fall off the wagon when you’re depressed or feeling blue. Sticking to a non-sugar-based diet and avoiding junk food is tough because you’ve got more on your plate. But, by meditating and finding ways to relieve stress, you can eat healthily and cut the odds of dealing with Type 1 and 2 diabetes in later life.

Hair Loss

Compared to heart disease and diabetes, hair loss doesn’t rank as highly. Still, it’s an issue that men and women deal with, and it’s problematic. Staring in the mirror and not liking the reflection that stares back can cause you to become reclusive. Without a high level of self-esteem, it’s tempting to stay indoors and avoid socialising, encouraging your mental health to spiral out of control. Beeja Meditation’s courses focus on ageing gracefully for this very reason. Plus, meditating is a legitimate tactic if you plan on growing it back or keeping what you have for the long-term. It’s all about eliminating tension so that the hair follicles can return to their former glory.

Lower Bone Density

Also known as osteoporosis, low bone density can result in constant aches and pains that are difficult to solve. Considering the brain controls the production and release of hormones, a dip in your mental health might increase the odds of dealing with osteoporosis by nearly 50%. That’s according to a study by National Elf Service.

So, your mental wellbeing isn’t only going to make you feel tired and less energetic.

Author: Mandy Kloppers

Mandy is a qualified therapist who treats depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, trauma, and many other types of mental health issues. She provides online therapy around the world for those needing support and also provides relationship counselling.