Firoozabadi Medical Education Center

Persistent fatigue disrupted sleep and a loss of interest in everyday activities are not always signs of a demanding lifestyle. When these changes persist and begin to affect daily functioning they may point to psychological difficulties that deserve closer attention.

Mental health is an essential component of overall well being. Emotional distress and chronic anxiety can affect sleep patterns, immune function and the management of physical illnesses  underlining the close relationship between psychological and physical health.

Recognising the Warning Signs

Sepideh Khasseh Tarash, MSc in Health Psychology at Firouzabadi Hospital said “Feeling sad or anxious when facing life's challenges is a natural response. However, if these feelings persist and interfere with a person's daily functioning at work within the family or in social relationships, professional assessment may be necessary.”She added “Persistent anxiety or low mood chronic insomnia or significant changes in sleeping patterns a marked decline in motivation, loss of interest in everyday activities overwhelming mental fatigue difficulty concentrating or making decisions and withdrawal from social interactions are among the most important warning signs that should not simply be dismissed as ordinary tiredness.”

The Connection Between Physical and Psychological Health

“People living with physical health conditions, particularly chronic illnesses, may be more vulnerable to psychological difficulties. Anxiety about treatment, concerns about the future and difficulty coming to terms with an illness are among the challenges directly addressed by health psychology.” Khasseh Tarash said.“The aim is to help individuals regulate their emotions, strengthen resilience and develop more effective coping strategies for managing stress enabling patients to take a more active role in their treatment journey.”

Everyday Measures That Support Mental Well-being

“Looking after mental health does not necessarily require complicated measures. Maintaining a regular sleep routine engaging in consistent physical activity preserving safe and supportive relationships, and identifying the factors that trigger stress are fundamental steps in everyday self care. Khasseh-Tarash explained.She added: “However, when these measures are not enough seeking help from a psychologist before reaching a point of crisis is a sensible choice for protecting quality of life.”

A Shared Responsibility for Mental Health

“Mental health is not solely an individual responsibility. Families, workplaces and hospital healthcare teams all have an important role in creating an environment free from judgement, where people are listened to with empathy and can access appropriate support services,” Khasseh Tarash said.“Hospitals are not only places where physical illnesses are treated. They can also provide a safe and supportive setting in which psychological distress is heard and addressed helping to care for both the physical and mental well being of those who seek treatment.”