Commonly overlooked side effects of mental health conditions

Mental health conditions can have a wide range of effects on a person's well-being, and while some of these effects are well-known and acknowledged, there are several that are often overlooked or not widely discussed.

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Here are some of the commonly overlooked side effects for people living with a mental illness:

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· Physical health issues: Mental illness can contribute to or exacerbate various physical health problems. For example, conditions like depression and anxiety have been linked to increased risk of cardiovascular disease, gastrointestinal issues, chronic pain, and weakened immune system.

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· Financial strain: Mental health issues can profoundly impact a person's financial situation. The symptoms of mental illness may interfere with work performance, leading to reduced productivity, absenteeism, or unemployment. Additionally, the cost of treatment, therapy, and medications can significantly burden individuals and their families.

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· Sleep disturbances: Many mental health disorders are associated with sleep disturbances. Conditions like depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can cause insomnia, hypersomnia (excessive sleepiness), nightmares, or disrupted sleep patterns. Poor sleep can further exacerbate mental health symptoms and negatively affect physical health and overall well-being.

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· Physical self-neglect: People living with a mental illness may struggle with self-care and neglect their physical well-being. They may have difficulty maintaining proper hygiene, following a healthy diet, exercising regularly, or managing chronic health conditions, leading to further health complications.

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At Flatrock, we recognize these issues, and provide comprehensive support and promote overall well-being for all our residents living with mental health conditions.