There's no health without mental health

"A person's mental health significantly influences how they experience pain and suffering associated with chronic disease. It's essential to take a holistic approach and address both the physical and psychological aspects when treating illness and in supporting caregivers and family members."

--Joanne Schwartz, counsellor for people with with depression, anxiety, trauma, addictions and chronic illnesses like pulmonary hypertension

Our bodies and our minds depend on each other -- the health of one, research has found, affects the health of the other. It isn't surprising that people with chronic diseases have a higher chance of experiencing depression and anxiety, but the reverse is also true: people with mental illnesses have a higher-than-normal chance of experiencing various chronic illnesses.

As Joanne Schwartz notes, it's important for people with pulmonary hypertension--as well as their caregivers and families--to think holistically and manage their mental wellness as well as their physical health. A 2021 report from the Mental Health Commission of Canada stresses the need to integrate mental health care throughout the health system and to make such services appealing and accessible for people with chronic conditions.

What are some ways to boost your mental health? Here are a few ideas to consider:

- Social connection: talk to other people, especially face-to-face if you can.

- Use all your senses: what sensory input do you enjoy? Music? A bouquet of beautiful flowers? Consider sight, smell, hearing, taste, and touch.

- Physical activity: moving around (within the limits recommended by your PH medical team) can help.

- Learn something new: stretching your brain builds confidence and self-esteem.

- Help others: give some of your time to support causes you believe in.

- Prioritize rest and sleep as best you can.

Of course, self-help only goes so far. Counselling can benefit people at all points on the mental health spectrum, especially for those living with chronic conditions. Managing a long-term illness comes with unique emotional and psychological challenges, so recognizing these struggles and reaching out for support is a powerful step toward improving both mental and physical well-being.

Read more about the link between chronic illness and mental health

Read the Mental Health Commission of Canada report

(Sources: Canadian Mental Health Association, Mental Health Commission of Canada, World Health Organization, University of Saskatchewan, National Institutes of Health [USA], National Health Service [UK])