Poor mental health can have harmful effects on physical health, a latest study shows.
For the study researchers examined the important link between psychological and physical wellbeing
"This article examines what has been learned from the extensive research that proliferated around this model of well-being, particularly as it relates to health (mental and physical) and interventions intended to improve the human condition," author Ryff from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, wrote in the study.
Ruff examined the previous studies on mental health and focused on six themes, reported News Medical. In the first theme, she studied how wellbeing shifts and changes throughout one's adult life and into the senior years.
The second theme concentrated on the relationship between personality and wellbeing. In the third, the wellbeing linked to family life was studied.
The fourth was about how wellbeing ties in with work and other community experiences. The fifth analyzed connections between wellbeing and health. Finally, the sixth theme was on how good mental health could be promoted within society.
"Although the last 2 thematic areas are of primary interest, the first 4 provide important evidence as to why eudaimonic well-being may be consequential for health and well-being - namely, because it is fundamentally anchored in how individuals negotiate their way through the challenges of life. This recognition further explicates why eudaimonic well-being is a worthy and essential target," Ryff wrote.
Ryff stated that maintaining a good psychological wellbeing is essential in enhancing physical health. People with better mental health reduce their risk of diseases, promote longevity and have higher life satisfaction. Ryff also stated that people with better psychological wellbeing are more flexible in the face of adversity.
The study, 'Psychological Well-Being Revisited: Advances in the Science and Practice of Eudaimonia,' was published in 'Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics.'
