Spotlight on the Connection Between Physical Wellness and Mental Wellness

• NCJ Number: 307591
• Author(s): Allison Gibson; Leah Hunt; Julie Cerel
• Date Published: July 2023
• Length: 4 pages
• Grant Number(s): 2018-VI-BX-K003
• Agencies: BJA-Sponsored
• Publication Type: Program/Project Description

Annotation

This brief by the National Suicide Awareness for Law Enforcement Officers Program (SAFLEO) discusses the relationship between physical and mental health.

Abstract

This brief by the National Suicide Awareness for Law Enforcement Officers Program (SAFLEO) discusses the relationship between physical and mental health. Physical health and mental health are often considered as being separate entities, but really, everything connects. Good health is not just the absence of disease; it also refers to the ability to bounce back from an illness or another challenge. There is significant evidence that poor physical health can lead to an increased chance of developing mental health concerns. Similarly, poor mental health can then affect physical health. Understanding the connection between physical and mental wellness includes examining the link between depression and physical illnesses and injuries. Understanding the links between mind and body is the first step in creating strategies to reduce the likelihood of developing issues that may deteriorate our physical and mental well-being. Several lifestyle factors influence both mental and physical well-being. Ultimately, there are many things one may do to maintain physical health that also improve mental health and vice versa. It is important to evaluate nutrition, level of exercise, mindfulness, social connectedness, and sleep habits to determine how they are impacting the physical and mental wellness connection. Physical and emotional wellness are connected. Considering daily activities that check both the physical and the mental health box. These activities may help to improve work performance and, more importantly, they will contribute to quality of life. Lastly, it is critical to recognize when daily coping strategies are not enough and one needs to reach out for additional assistance when feeling that one’s physical or mental wellness needs more support.