Physical health and mental health

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.

Research shows that people with a mental health problem are more likely to have a preventable physical health condition such as heart disease.

This can be for a variety of reasons, including:

genetics – The genes that make it more likely that you will develop a mental health problem may also play a part in physical health problems
low motivation – Some mental health problems or medications can affect your energy or motivation to take care of yourself
difficulty with concentration and planning – You may find it hard to arrange or attend medical appointments if your mental health problem affects your concentration
lack of support to change unhealthy behaviour – Healthcare professionals m...

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