A Perspective On The Mind-Body Connection As It Relates To Health (Research Paper Sample)

A perspective on the mind-body connection as it relates to health
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There is a connection between the mental health and the physical health of an individual. If a patient has a poor mental health, he or she is likely to have chronic physical conditions. On the other hand, if a patient has serious mental health problems, he or she is likely to develop chronic physical conditions (Curtis, 2000). A patient having chronic physical conditions is at a high risk of developing a poor mental health. It, therefore, follows that social factors that influence the physical health of a patient tend to influence the mental health of that individual as well.
How one feels, thinks, and actions will influence his or her body. If an individual goes through a stressful life experience, he or she is likely to develop symptoms like those of high blood pressure or stomach ulcer. As such, the human body will respond to negative thinking patterns of an individual.
In addition, there are some common factors that can help prevent both mental health and physical conditions that affect humans (Curtis, 2000). Factors such as adequate income and social support may help in preventing both physical and mental health conditions. Other factors like eating nutritious foods, and taking part in physical activity are basic in preventing both physical and mental health conditions.
A historical model that has led to contemporary views on health and wellness is the Biopsychosocial model. According to the model, the interaction of biological factors, psychological factors, and social factors influence the outcome of a disease (Curtis, 2000). The biological aspect of the model attempts to explain how the body of an individual is the cause of an illness. The social aspect of the model indicates that aspects of life like religion or culture may negatively influence one’s health. The psychological aspect of the model attempt to explain how psychological factors may be a ca...