Despite improvements during the past decades, mental health still doesn't receive the attention it needs. That's unfortunate since mental health is an important factor in your overall health. Luckily, mental health treatments are among the services your Brandon, FL, family medicine physicians, Dr. Joel Biggers, and Dr. Elizabeth Biggers of Biggers Family Medicine, offer.
Why good mental health is so important
Mental health issues can increase your risk of developing serious chronic health conditions. Although most people feel stressed or depressed from time to time, frequent depression or stress may be a factor in:
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ)
- Obesity
- Drug or alcohol abuse
- Mental illness
Even if you don't develop a chronic health problem, you may still experience frequent headaches or stomachaches. Feeling stressed can make the muscles in your neck, shoulders or upper back tighten, triggering muscle pain and spasms. Stress, depression, or anxiety can also interfere with your ability to fall asleep and stay asleep. If you don't already have anxiety or depression, frequent insomnia can actually increase your risk of those conditions.
Insomnia may also affect your memory and your ability to concentrate. When you don't sleep well during the night, you'll probably feel tired during the day, which can make it hard to focus at work or when you're driving. Sleep deprivation increases your risk of certain health conditions, like obesity or high blood pressure. While you sleep, your body repairs itself and tackles germs. If you don't get enough sleep, you may get sick more often.
How your doctor can help you improve your mental health
If you're dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, or another mental health issue, give your Brandon, FL, family doctor a call. Your doctor will listen to your concerns and symptoms and recommend treatments and strategies that can help. Depending on your diagnosis, he or she may suggest counseling, medications, lifestyle changes, or strategies that will help you manage stress and anxiety.
Are you struggling with a mental health issue? Call your family medicine physicians in Brandon, FL, Dr. Joel Biggers and Dr. Elizabeth Biggers of Biggers Family Medicine. Schedule an appointment by calling (813) 655-4646.