Holistic health: Considering mental and physical health

Mental health can affect a person's ability to participate in healthy behaviour’s that impact upon physical health.

This can increase the likelihood of some chronic diseases linked with physical health.

Mental health can also impact a person's ability to participate in treatment and recovery.

Approximately 30% of people living with a long-term physical health condition also have a mental health issue.

People who live with mental health conditions also have significantly higher rates of physical illness.

Source: Naylor C, Parsonage M, McDaid D, Knapp M, Fossey M, Galea A (2012). Report. Long-term conditions and mental health. The cost of co- morbidities.The King's Fund and Centre for Mental Health