The Unseen Diagnosis: Why Mental Health is Central to Your Physical Health
As we observe Mental Health Awareness Month this October in South Africa, I want to address a topic that is profoundly important to me as a Specialist Physician: the undeniable link between your mental state and your physical health.
Here at my practice, I routinely see how emotional stress, chronic anxiety, and undiagnosed depression manifest as physical symptoms—everything from persistent fatigue and high blood pressure to irritable bowel syndrome and weakened immunity. The mind and body are not separate entities; they are one interconnected system.
A Specialist’s Perspective: The Physical Toll of Unresolved Stress
The government’s call for Mental Health Awareness Month is a vital reminder that we, as South Africans, face significant challenges, including widespread stigma and discrimination that prevent many from seeking help.
From my clinical experience, I see that this delay in seeking care has severe physical consequences. Unmanaged mental health conditions lead to:
- Chronic Inflammation: Stress hormones like cortisol, when consistently elevated, contribute to inflammation, a precursor to many non-communicable diseases.
- Worsening Chronic Conditions: Anxiety and depression can make managing diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease infinitely more difficult.
- Vulnerability: Mental distress can lead to poor lifestyle choices (substance abuse, poor diet, lack of exercise) that damage the body.
The objective, therefore, is not just to talk about feelings, but to promote early intervention that prevents long-term physical illness.
SADAG is inviting you to join the movement this World Mental Health Day by taking part in #MoveForMentalHealth and #GoGreenForMentalHealth at their local Parkrun on Saturday, 11 October at 8am.
Parkrun is completely free, and you only need to register once, regardless of how many events you attend or whether you walk, jog, run, volunteer, or a mix of all.
HOW TO REGISTER:
To register for parkrun in South Africa, go to the official parkrun South Africa website www.parkrun.co.za and click the “Register” button. Fill in the required information to create your profile and receive your free, scannable barcode by email. Print it or download it; it’s essential for recording your participation at any parkrun event worldwide and for earning points if you are a Discovery Vitality member.
FIND A PARKRUN NEAREST TO YOU.
There are over 244 Parkruns across the country, click here to find a parkrun closest to you.
Overcoming Stigma: A Call for Clinical Honesty
We must normalise the conversation around mental health within a clinical context. You should feel as comfortable discussing persistent anxiety with your doctor as you would chest pain.
If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms such as unexplained chronic pain, persistent exhaustion, significant changes in sleep or appetite, or a general withdrawal from life, please understand that these could be physical signs of an underlying mental health issue.
My Message, as Dr. Mentor, is simple: Mental health is a universal human right, and seeking help is an act of self-preservation for your entire well-being.
3 Ways to Integrate Mental Care into Your Health Routine
This month, let’s take practical steps to treat our mental health with the same diligence we apply to our physical health:
1. Prioritise Screening and Honest Disclosure
During your next consultation—for any reason—be honest about your stress levels, mood, and any anxiety you feel. As your Specialist Physician, I rely on this information to provide comprehensive care and ensure your treatment plan addresses the root causes, not just the symptoms.
2. Embrace the Rest Ethic
In line with the national focus on mental wellness, we must counter the culture of burnout. Taking time for mental rest, setting firm boundaries, and allowing yourself genuine breaks are not luxuries; they are preventative medicine. Schedule downtime as you would a high-priority work meeting.
3. Know When to Seek Specialised Help
While I can manage the physical effects of stress and screen for mental health concerns, specialised care is often necessary. If a mental health issue is detected, I will ensure you are seamlessly referred to a qualified psychologist or psychiatrist. Using the available resources is key to your long-term health.
Let us use this Mental Health Awareness Month to commit to a more inclusive, honest approach to our health. Your mental health is inextricably linked to your physical vitality—let’s look after both.
Dr. Whitney Mentor Specialist Physician