Mental health and physical health are often viewed as two separate things. But a more accurate description would be that they are two sides of the same coin. Overall wellness requires both of those aspects of health to be a key focus point.
For example, “I’m so stressed,” is a common and seemingly innocent enough remark. With more people working from home and in close proximity to family and friends, it has undoubtedly raised stress levels. But stress can lead to headaches, muscle tension, upset stomach, or even increased anxiety levels.
Let’s say that a 30-year-old woman is now telecommuting, as is her husband. Suddenly she is balancing her work and home lives in a different way and might not be able to find time to herself as easily as before. This could lead to increased stress, and maybe she starts upping her snack intake. Pair that with less gym time, and she is now struggling with numerous areas of her health.
Viewing mental health and physical health as connected is not a new concept. Since it’s inception, the World Health Organization (WHO) has included mental wellbeing in its definition of health.
“[Health is] a state of complete physical, mental and social wellbeing and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity,” WHO states.
“Neither mental nor physical health can exist alone. Mental, physical, and social functioning are interdependent. Furthermore, health and illness may co-exist.”
There have also been studies that show the connection between mental and physical health, and how the improvement of one can positively impact the other.
Virtual behavioral care was found to reduce medical utilization in a targeted cardiac population, according to a study published in the American Journal of Managed Care. Individuals who participated in a remotely delivered behavioral care program had significantly fewer all-cause hospital admissions in six months, and 48% fewer hospital stays.
“For many individuals with medical conditions such as cardiovascular disease, concomitant behavioral health issues—such as depression, stress, and anxiety—are common and pose substantial challenges to recovery from medical illness,” the report states. “Even in those individuals who do not meet the clinical criteria for behavioral health concerns, inadequate resiliency to cope with the challenges posed in the face of a medical or life event can significantly impact health.”
Restoring the mental and physical connection
Zillion understands that both mental and physical health is essential to overall wellbeing. That is why our RestoreResilience program is so critical – especially in the current environment, with more people continuing to work from home and trying to balance their work and home lives.
RestoreResilience is an excellent way for employers to help their employees learn to develop the necessary coping skills in these trying times. The virtual program focuses on stress, anxiety, and sleep, with additional emphasis on nutrition and exercise. Members work one-on-one with a personal health coach and can also utilize peer-to-peer support, communicating with other program members.
Whether a person needs help managing stress and anxiety levels, Zillion works with each member to create and develop the ideal program. RestoreResilience can help employees mentally and physically, ensuring a comprehensive approach to better wellbeing.
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