The duality of health resides in its physical and mental facets, both of which are pillars upholding overall wellness. Unfortunately, physical health often eclipses its counterpart in significance. This article underscores the harmonization of mental and physical health and recenters the balance between the two.
Understanding the Dichotomy: Physical Health vs. Mental Health
Physical health embodies condition of the body, whether it’s the absence of illness or our ability to perform daily physical activities. Mental health, on the other hand, speaks about our emotional, psychological, and social wellbeing – the pillars governing our thoughts, emotions, and actions.
The Symbiotic Dance: Physical and Mental Health
A harmonious relationship exists between physical and mental health, with each element influencing the other.
The Mental to Physical Pathway
Poor mental health infiltrates physical health. People struggling with mental health disorders often find it more challenging to make health-conscious choices, leading to complications like obesity, heart disease, weakened immune system, and more.
The Physical to Mental Pathway
Just as the state of our mental health can influence our physical health, the reverse is equally true. Chronic physical illness can lead to increased psychological distress, anxiety and a diminished quality of life.
The Economic Argument: The Cost of Negligence
The economic implications of not treating mental health on par with physical health are colossal. They ripple outwards, seeping into systems of productivity, healthcare costs, and societal welfare. The associated economic burden emphasizes that mental health needs to shoulder an equal weight in discussions and considerations of health.
Parity in Treatment: A Matter of Human Rights
In considering the importance of mental health, it is essential to look beyond the lens of individual and societal wellbeing, entering the realm of human rights. Under human rights law, everyone has the right to the highest standard of physical and mental health.
A Holistic Approach: The Road to Comprehensive Well-being
A balanced approach, considering both mental and physical health, offers a holistic view of health. This perspective embodies a comprehensive approach to well-being, modelled on understanding that health’s true essence lies in harmony between the physical and mental spheres.
Conclusion: Toward a Balanced Dialogue
The narrative around health must shift its focus from just physical health to a more comprehensive understanding encompassing mental health. It’s imperative to spread awareness about the significance of mental health and its impact on overall well-being.
In the end, the journey to health involves celebrating both our physical and mental health – acknowledging their symbiotic relationship and giving them due importance. Emphasizing this balance will not only reflect in improved individual and societal health but also in efficient resource allocation, lessen stigmatization, and promote an inclusive understanding of what it truly means to be healthy
