Mental Health Impacts Physical HealthMental health has a significant impact on physical health. Mental health can actually affect physical processes in the body. There is research now showing that stress, depression and anxiety can have very real physical symptoms. Some symptoms are more well known like high blood pressure, but did you know mental health imbalances can also cause a host of other symptoms? Your mental health can have an impact on your stress hormones like adrenaline and it can also completely turn your ability to get restorative sleep upside down. There is research showing that your mental health can affect your heart, your circulation, your skin, your digestion, your hormone systems, increase inflammation and more. If you have chronic illness or an autoimmune condition, you have an increased chance of experiencing mental health challenges. There is evidence showing that both the condition itself and the stress from having the condition can drive mental health issues. As well, mental health challenges such as stress, anxiety, and depression can have a negative impact on chronic health conditions themselves. Even if you have an existing condition it’s important to know that chronic stress, anxiety, or worry as well as depression are treatable. Mental health is such an important part of a holistic model. When we are considering mind, body, spirit medicine, Mind/mental health is one of the main pillars that is considered that can contribute to overall health and well being. Some Signs You Need To Have a Check In With Your Mental Health:
You Don’t Have To Be Ashamed Of Your Mental Health Challenges But It’s Ok If You Feel That Way Too
What To Look For When Searching Out Naturopathic Mental HealthcareWhen you are shopping for a Naturopathic doctor to work with on your mental health, It's important to know that naturopathic doctors and many medical doctors don’t have counselling training at all or very little. As you are searching for a good fit for your mental health care you’ll want to look for someone that is Licensed to practice Naturopathic Medicine and has specialized training in mental health beyond their basic Naturopathic medical education. After having a look at the training of the physician you are wanting to work with you also want to make sure you are a good fit to work together. All the training in the world sometimes can’t overcome a fit that is not quite right when you are receiving mental health care. If the practitioner you are wanting to work with has a meet and greet or consultation option it’s a good idea to utilize it. Don’t be afraid to take some time after your consultation to decide if this would be the best fit for you. If it’s not a good fit you can ask for help with a referral to colleagues that the practitioner might have connections with as well. You can also check out more than one practitioner and then choose whoever you felt like you “clicked” with the best. How To Work With MeI am both a licensed Naturopathic physician and I have undergone a 3 year education program in counselling training. If this resonates with you and you would like to work with me, click here to apply to be a patient. |