Your body will speak the words your mind is too afraid to. These physical cues are not necessarily overt symptoms of mental illness, but if they consistently appear without a discernible medical cause, seek professional help.
Physical and mental health are inexorably intertwined and have a propensity to influence each other in subtle but profound ways. While mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and chronic stress may be thought of as "invisible illnesses," many times they have already taken to presenting themselves in the form of physical symptoms long before the diagnosis is officially received. Identifying them early can help in accessing early intervention and support. The following are 7 physical symptoms that might be a sign of hidden mental health conditions.
7 signs of physical health that hints on mental health problems:
1. Unexplained Aches and Pains
Recurring headaches, tension headaches, back pains, or stomach cramps without any determinable medical cause may be a function of anxiety or psychological tension. The physical body tightens up, and ongoing emotional pressure may express itself in terms of physical pain.
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2. Persistent Fatigue Despite Rest
Being perpetually fatigued, even following a restful night's sleep, could be an indicator of depression or burnout. If your mind is preoccupied with a constant battle with intrusive thoughts, anxiety, or low mood, it will drain the energy from you—both physically and mentally.
3. Changes in Appetite or Weight
Sudden weight loss or gain, or extreme appetite change, may be a sign of emotional imbalances. Bingeing is a common response to stress or sadness for some, whereas others lose their appetite when anxious or depressed. If your changes persist, it might be time to scratch the surface.
4. Sleep Disturbances
Insomnia, oversleeping, nightmares, or disturbed sleeping patterns are common indicators of mental disorders. Anxiety, PTSD, or depression are likely to interfere with sleeping patterns, creating a cycle that affects overall health and mood stability.
5. Medical Conditions Without Basis
The gut-brain axis does exist. Nausea, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or bloating without obvious reason can be linked to anxiety and prolonged stress. Emotional health has a great impact on the digestive system, which is regularly referred to as the "second brain."
6. Frequently Being Ill or Weakened Immunity
If you're getting ill more frequently than normal, it might be that stress and mental fatigue are weakening your immune system. Ongoing mental illnesses may result in hormonal disturbances that lower the ability of your body to fight off infections.
7. Ignoring Personal Hygiene or Grooming
Grooming, hygiene, or appearance loss may be a sign of mental illness, especially depression. If the mind is numb or overwhelmed, activities like bathing, dressing, or brushing hair will become tasks and meaningless.
