Comorbidities and Mental Health Disorders

Physical and mental health are closely intertwined. Research shows that mental health disorders increase the risk of physical health conditions. And the reverse is true as well – physical health conditions increase the risk for mental health challenges.^1,2

What is comorbidity?

“Comorbidity” refers to the occurrence of multiple medical conditions in a person. Those living with mental health disorders often find themselves dealing with other health issues, or comorbidities.^1,3

Sadly, the life expectancy for people with severe mental illness is shorter than that of people without a mental illness. Increased risk of suicide contributes to this statistically shorter life span. But research shows that comorbidities conditions also are a major reason for shorter life expectancy.¹

This link between physical and mental health makes it all the more important to receive holistic healthcare. This is care that addresses physical, spiritual, and mental health at the same time.^1,4

Common comorbidities with mental health disorders

It is well documented that people diagnosed with mental health disorders are more likely to develop certain physical conditions. Common comorbidities of mental health conditions include:^1-3

• Heart disease – People with severe mental illness have a 1 to 3 times higher risk of dying from heart disease than people without mental illness.
• Diabetes – Diabetes occurs more often among people with depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
• HIV – HIV rates among people with severe mental illness are higher than in the general population.
• Infectious diseases – People with both severe mental illness and an infectious disease like tuberculosis or hepatitis have a risk of death that is 4 to 8 times that of the general population.
• Obesity – Some medicines used to treat certain physical conditions can cause weight gain. Also, some people may overeat to cope with mental illness.
• COPD – Anxiety and depression make COPD symptoms worse and increase the risk of death for a person with COPD.

The reasons why

There are many reasons why people with mental health disorders face an increased risk of developing various physical conditions. Experts believe they are typically a combination of behavioral factors, biological factors, and access to quality care.^1-3

Behavioral factors

Lifestyle factors play a significant role in why certain comorbidities develop. People living with mental health challenges may be more prone to adopting certain habits that can contribute to physical illnesses. These habits may include:¹

• Smoking
• Using drugs or alcohol
• Eating an unhealthy diet
• Engaging in risky behavior
• Poor self care

Biological factors

Chronic stress – a hallmark of mental health disorders – takes a toll on the body. Chronic stress can lead to physical problems such as:^2,3

• Hormonal imbalances
• Poor immune health
• Inflammation
• Metabolic changes

Access to care

Lacking access to quality healthcare can interfere with getting necessary treatments. Insurance denials and high healthcare and prescription medicine costs are also common barriers to getting medical care.^1,3

Also, the stigma around mental health can prevent some people from seeking healthcare when they need it. This puts people at greater risk of having undiagnosed or untreated medical conditions.^1,3

How physical health impacts mental health

On the flip side, a person’s physical health can greatly affect their mental health. For example, chronic pain can make symptoms of depression and anxiety worse. Chronic pain commonly occurs with many health conditions, including fibromyalgia and arthritis.^2,3

Also, the emotional toll of living with a chronic illness can lead to increased stress, social isolation, and reduced quality of life. These, in turn, can contribute to the development or worsening of mental health disorders.^2,3

Depression is more common among people who live with the following medical conditions:²

• Alzheimer’s
• Autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Cancer
• Diabetes
• Epilepsy
• HIV/AIDS
• Parkinson’s
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Stroke

Of course, this is not the case for everyone with these medical conditions. Also, a recently diagnosed person may at first have symptoms of depression, but those symptoms may go away after they have adjusted to their condition. Talk with your doctor if you are having symptoms of depression or anxiety.²

Treating both the body and the mind

Mental health disorders can affect anyone, whether or not they already live with a physical health condition. But research shows that having a medical condition – especially if it is long-term or persistent – can greatly impact a person’s mental well-being.³

The bottom line: If you have a physical health condition, make sure you are taking care of your mental health needs. And if you have a mental health condition, take steps to care for your physical body. Talk with your doctor about any concerns you may have so you can keep your body and mind in the best shape possible.