Internal medicine is a branch of medical care that is focused on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases and disorders in adults,while mental health encompasses the emotional, psychological, and social well-being of an individual.
The mind and body connection refers to the intricate relationship between our mental and emotional state and our physical health and well-being.
Let’s discuss the mind and body connection and how an internal medicine doctor in Tucson, AZ, can address mind-body issues.
Understanding Mind and Body Connection
Since the mind and body are intricately connected, our physical health can significantly impact our mental health and vice versa. For example, emotional states, such as stress, and mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, can profoundly affect physical health. It can weaken the immune system, increase inflammation, and contribute to the development of various health conditions, including infections and cardiovascular diseases.
On the other hand, bodily health problems that stay longer, such as obesity, hypertension, diabetes, heart diseases, and autoimmune disorders, increase the risk of experiencing psychological distress related to these conditions. Furthermore, certain medications used in internal medicine to treat health conditions can cause mood changes and increase the risk of anxiety and depression.
How do Internal Medicine Doctors Address Problems with The Mind and Body Connection?
When it comes to addressing the problems associated with mind and body connection, a holistic approach is essential. A holistic approach considers the individual as a whole and considers the interconnectedness of the physical, mental, social, emotional, and spiritual aspects of health.
Internal medicine doctors adopt an integrated and holistic approach to patient care to address problems with the mind and body connection. Here are some ways in which internal medicine doctors can address issues of mind and body.
Screening And Assessment
As a part of routine patient assessment, an internal medicine doctor offers physical and mental health screening. Physical health screening tests, such as mammograms, colonoscopies, and prostate exams, can detect physical health problems like cancer.
The mental health screening tests involve the use of a validated questionnaire to identify the symptoms of mental issues, such as stress, anxiety, and depression in the patient.
Integrated Treatment Plan
An internal medicine doctor can develop an integrated treatment plan for a patient with comorbid mental and physical health conditions. Before developing a treatment plan, they understand the impact of mental health conditions on physical health conditions and vice versa.
Your internal medicine doctor can incorporate a combination of medical interventions, lifestyle changes, psychotherapy, and support services in an integrated treatment plan.
Education and Support
An internal medicine doctor can also educate their patient about the connection between the mind and body and the potential impact of mental health on their physical well-being and vice versa. They can also empower them with knowledge and encourage them to adopt healthy coping mechanisms and self-care practices. You may also be advised to be mindful of the potential side effects that the medications for your physical health may produce on your mental health.
Internal Medicine Doctors in Tucson, AZ
If you are looking for the best internal medicine doctor who can address the body-mind connection and offers 24-hour medical care even on weekends and holidays, contact our board-certified internal medicine doctor Dr. Robert E. Lending.
Our board-certified and compassionate internal medicine doctor is committed to providing his patient with personalized and comprehensive care for their mind and body problems.
If you would like to make a one-on-one consultation with our concierge medicine doctors, contact our staff today at (520) 795-4291 or fill out our online appointment request form.
