Mental Health vs. Physical Health: Which is More Important?

Which came first…the chicken or the egg? The other day I asked a question which is more important. Which is more important…Mental Health or Physical Health? I think we need both, however, it is okay to focus on either one or the other at a time. Here is how I determined my answer.

Defining Health

What do you think of when you hear the word “health”? Most of us automatically think about physical health — exercising, healthy eating, drinking water, etc. And while physical health does play a large role in keeping our bodies in shape and functioning properly, our mental health is just as important to maintain to achieve a healthy and happy lifestyle.

Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood to adolescence, and through adulthood.

Good mental health is characterized by a person's ability to fulfill a number of key functions and activities, including the ability to learn. The ability to feel, express, and manage a range of positive and negative emotions. The ability to form and maintain good relationships with others.

How to Work on Your Mental Health

1. Talk about your feelings.

 Talking about your feelings can help you stay in good mental health and deal with times when you feel troubled.

2. Keep active. 

30 minutes of activity three to five times a week can greatly improve your cardiovascular and overall health.

3. Eat well. 

Your body needs fuel to perform at its best. Try to incorporate fruits and vegetables into your regular diet to increase strength and nutrition. 

4. Drink sensibly.

 Limit your alcohol consumption.

5. Keep in touch. 

Stay in touch with your emotions and regularly check in with yourself.

6. Ask for help. 

Reach out when you’re struggling.

7. Take a break.

 Give your mind the rest it needs to recharge.

8. Do something you're good at. 

Sharpen those skills and invest time into your hobbies!

While many people may consider physical health to be the foundation of productive life, if you examine the chemical effects of the mind on the body, it is clear that mental health is the driver of your physical health. It affects how you think, feel, and act as you cope with life. It also helps determine how you handle stress, relate to others, and make choices.

What is Physical Health?

Physical health is the state of your physical body and how well it is operating. Ways to maintain your physical health can be broken down into four categories:

1. Lifestyle – staying active throughout your day, getting enough sleep, drinking water

2. Diet – eating balanced foods that nourish your body

3. Hygiene – keeping yourself and your environment clean and kept-up

4. Exercise – using and strengthening your body and muscles

The link between mental health and physical health is generally misunderstood because the mind and body are considered two separate entities, but oftentimes these two entities need to work together for our own well-being. Our mental health can directly affect our physical health, and vice versa.

Which Is More Important?

So, which is more important…Mental Health or Physical Health? The link between physical and mental health is complex, but the answer is simple: your body needs both mental health and physical health to function properly and let you live a happy and healthy life. If you are struggling in one area, you may choose to focus on one over the other, and that is okay. Just remember the influence they have on each other and how important it is to keep up with your health, both mentally and physically.

How can you improve your mental and physical health today?

Yours Truly,

Ms. Stallworth