The link between psychological health and physical care is being more identified with in modern day health discourse. Many chronic conditions like diabetes, arthritis, and heart problems have a sizable psychological burden on the person. The World Health Organization reports that 1 in 4 adults will experience a mental health disorder at some time around their lives, and those living with chronic illnesses are now under considerably larger risk. The interrelationship between mental and physical health shines a light on the importance of taking an integrated approach to healthcare, maintaining both aspects of health at once.
The Psychology of Chronic Disease
The psychological aspects of a chronic illness are often all consuming. Having a chronic condition means having to deal with a whole other host of emotional and psychological challenges far beyond just the physical limitations. Studies published in the Journal of Psychosomatic Research show that people with chronic diseases are 50% more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety than people without any health problems.
Although, the stress of having to juggle a chronic illness can make things worse from a mental health standpoint. Symptoms are unpredictable, regular doctor appointments and treatments, as well as economic hardship may create feelings of hopelessness and frustration. A American Psychological Association study found that those living with long-term health conditions faced higher-stress levels which in turn lowers their quality of life.
The Bidirectional Relationship Between Mental Health and Chronic Illness
Mental health and chronic illness are two-sided, the coin. Being chronically ill can affect mental health and suffering from a mental weather condition or disorder can worsen physical symptoms. This can also be seen in patients with chronic disease, where the depression leads to self-care behaviors being blown off, like missing a dose of medicine or not choosing appropriately healthy options for lifestyle (shout-out to my POTS and IBS ladies!), which continues to worsen their chronic condition. On the other — these ailments can follow in a perpetuating downward spiral of mental health issues: chronic pain and fatigue leading to feelings of helplessness, isolation and vice versa.
~30% of patients with chronic pain are reported to have clinically significant depression. The dynamic interplay of these factors demands a holistic therapeutic strategy that adequately addresses the patient’s physical and mental health.
Psychosocial Factors Impacting Chronic Illness Management
When it comes to living with a chronic health condition, patients report that psychosocial factors have the biggest impact on their coping strategies. Such factors as emotional resilience, social support systems and mental health awareness have an impact on a patient’s sense of well-being. Strong support systems can make a huge difference in the way that one copes and thus, their mental health outcomes. National Alliance on Mental Illness studies demonstrate that people with strong social connections are 40% more likely to have good mental health vs. those who don’t receive support from their friends.
- Emotional Support
Emotional support from family, friends + healthcare providers is very important for people living with a chronic illness. Keeping in regular touch with those who have previously exhibited resilience and encouraging effective coping mechanisms is always a good rule of thumb. Emotional support is an important factor in better adherence to the treatment plans and improved health outcomes. - Mental Health Resources
Based on my experiences and what I know from others, mental health resources are almost absolutely crucial for those with chronic illness. Healthcare integration: Integration healthcare model: Psychosocial support has been shown to improve outcomes for patients with physical illness. As this study published in Health Affairs showed, those patients also saw a 30% decrease in hospital readmissions thanks to more comprehensive care of their physical and psychological conditions. - Coping Strategies
Effective coping strategies help mitigate the psychological impact of chronic illness. Emotional resilience can be improved by mindfulness, CBT and relaxation based techniques. Studies have found that the people using mindfulness report anxiety by 25% related to chronic illness.
Holistic Medicine Approaches
In addition, holistic health approaches where the needs of the whole person are considered living with chronic illness and mental health will be essential. By merging mental health management with the treatment of chronic disease, healthcare providers can foster holistic wellbeing.
- Integrated Care Models
Physical and mental health services combined together in an integrated care model will be under the focus. Such an approach can lead to comprehensive treatment plans that incorporate the management of ongoing medical conditions in conjunction with mental health needs. Another reason to be excited about this research – a study in the American Journal of Public Health showed that integrated care led to higher patient satisfaction and better health outcomes, the result being those enrolled reported 40% less ER visits. - Education and Empathy
It is important to educate people about the psychological effects of chronic illness. As well as to patients and to healthcare providers, educational programs that focus on the relationship between mental and physical health will encourage this realization. With more awareness, came better communication and support to benefit patients in general. - Stress Management Techniques
Incorporating elements of stress management into the treatment plan will support improved emotional health. FOLLOW US: Insider is on FacebookMore: Stress Relief Meditation Mindfulness Mental Health Stress management methods are said to improve mental health by almost 30 % and the stats just don’t lie.
Resilience in Chronic Illness
Resilience, a large part of which is how well one can adapt and recover after being knocked down, will be highlighted in my role supporting those with chronic illness. Resilience Building includes developing a positive outlook and being able to set goals giving priority to self-efficacy.
- Focus on the Positive
Highlighting positivity in peoples’ experience of chronic illness can improve their coping with the condition. According to research in Psychological Science, people with a growth mindset are 40% more likely to persevere in the face of challenges. - Goal Setting
Goals that are not accurate or valid will facilitate direct involvement of individuals in the management of their health. Creating mini “goals” from bigger ones can help to build confidence and make you feel like no goal is too far out of reach. If you set goals and aims, research shows that one of the best factors will increase your motivation and success. - Promoting Self-Care Practices
Efforts to foster resilience should include promoting self-care practices. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and relaxation can all help with your mental fitness. Studies indicate a 30% upsurge in emotional well-being for people that practice self-care.
The Role of Healthcare Providers
Health care providers will be crucial in addressing the interaction of mental health with chronic illness. Taking a comprehensive approach which includes the promotion of mental wellbeing can improve the overall care quality delivered to patients.
- Training in Psychosocial Factors
Training of healthcare providers in identification and behavior modification with psychosocial factors has been shown to facilitate treatment of these challenges impacting patients with chronic illness. Recognizing the emotional stresses patients are under allows you to communicate with more empathy and provide better support. Training in psychosocial factors had the largest impact; those who were educated about these issues reported a 25% larger patient satisfaction. - Advocates for Mental Health Resources
Healthcare professionals should be advocating for more resources available to their patients. Working in conjunction with mental health professionals ensures that patients benefit from a holistic care approach that caters to the needs of their body and minds. - Empowering Patient Engagement
Activating patients to manage their own health and get the care they need. Studies are showing that engaged patients have better health outcomes and enjoy a higher quality of life.
Conclusion
As awareness of the link between mental health and chronic diseases grows, so too will the importance placed on integrated care and holistic assessment. Through mental health awareness and effective resources, those with chronic conditions can learn to adapt through time and cultivate resilience. A consideration of chronic illness from a psychological perspective will undoubtedly be the trend in the future, leading to better health and wellness for all who face these challenges.
