For a long time, scientists viewed our mental health and physical health as two distinct entities without any connection. Different scientists studied the mind and the body, and the research continued parallelly. However, that view is now obsolete. Our minds and our bodies have been proved to be connected in ways we haven’t yet completely understood. There is a lot of research being done to understand how the mind impacts the body and the body impacts the mind.

Impact of the physical health on mental health;

• Stress: The amount of stress people experience also control the amounts of the hormone cortisol present in the body. Increased levels of cortisol are associated with a decrease in mental health. Exercise helps bring the level of cortisol down.
• Exercise and Sleep: A lot of our emotions and our mental health is controlled by the levels of various neurotransmitters and hormones. The level of these neurotransmitters and hormones are controlled in large part by our exercise and our sleep. Exercise releases endorphins which improve our mood. Poor quantity or quality of sleep can lead to irritability, mood swings and poor concentration. Both exercise and adequate sleep can alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.
• Chronic illnesses: Chronic illnesses like heart diseases, diabetes, arthritis and cancer can be overwhelming and can lead to depression and anxiety. Getting regular check-ups and treatment, if necessary, is important.
• Substance Abuse: People who abuse substances like alcohol, tobacco, marijuana or drugs have higher than normal chances of developing depression, anxiety and psychotic illness such as schizophrenia. Get help to stop substance abuse if needed.
• Appearance: People who are unhappy with their physical appearance and fitness levels may experience lowered self-esteem which can lead to depression and eating disorders. Reach out to a diet counsellor or psychological counsellor for help with this, if necessary.

Impact of mental health on physical health;

• Chronic Illnesses: Mental illness can have an impact on chronic illnesses such as heart diseases, diabetes and cancer. For example, individual with depression are found to have a higher risk of developing heart diseases than individuals without depression.
• Immune System: Mental illness can also negatively impact the immune system making individuals fall ill more frequently.
• Pain Perception: Mental health issues can actually increase physical pain. Individuals who suffer from mental illness also have a harder time controlling chronic pain conditions like fibromyalgia, arthritis and migraines.
• Lifestyle: Individuals with mental health conditions may make lifestyle choices which can in turn affect physical health. For example, they may be less likely to eat a healthy diet, exercise, or sleep well, all of which can impact physical health. 
• Inflammation: Mental illness has been linked to increased inflammation, which can contribute to a range of physical conditions like heart diseases, diabetes and cancer.

In case you need help with mental health concerns or mental well-being in general, reach out to a counsellor.