The mind–body connection is a concept that has grown in popularity. It highlights the intricate relationship of an individual’s physical health with his or her emotions and psychological state. As medicine begins to understand and accept “the mind–body connection,” there has been a greater integration of biomedicine, mental health services, and alternative or complementary therapies.

This week’s resources cite multiple studies that explain the complex and multidirectional connection between physical illness and mental illness. For example, chronic physical illness may cause mental distress. On the other hand, mental illness can lead to deteriorating physical health, an acute medical crisis, or poor overall health outcomes. Given the connection between physical illness and mental illness, it is common to find health care teams that include physicians, mental health professionals, and medical social workers. The combination of these disciplines provides patients with well-rounded care that emphasizes the whole person.

To prepare for this Discussion:

Think about a mental illness and a physical illness that might be connected. Consider the impact of mental illness on physical illness and vice versa.

Post an explanation of the relationship between the mental illness and the physical illness. Explain the specific course of the physical illness that might be influenced by the mental illness. Then, explain how this relationship might impact a patient’s course of life.

Be sure to support your postings and responses with specific references to the resources and the current literature using appropriate APA format and style.

Reference

Gehlert, S., & Browne, T. (Eds.). (2019). Handbook of health social work (3rd ed.). Hoboken, NJ: Wiley.

• Chapter 9, “The Implementation of Integrated Behavioral Health Models” (pp. 190-202)