In a world wrought with turmoil, it is no wonder we continue to hear reports about the declining health of our population. Job losses, economic strife, financial problems, home foreclosures, and a host of other woes are no longer hurts that happen to unfamiliar faces on the news. With each passing day, these experiences happen much too close to home, or have already arrived at the doorstep.

Prolonged exposure to external stressors and negative experiences brings about internal conflict. When unresolved, it can lead to levels of anxiety, depression and other mood disorders that culminate in psychological distress. This distress of the mind has a direct correlation to physical ailments of the body.

This is not a sudden phenomenon brought about by current events. It is a problem that has grown over time, becoming more widespread as societal problems magnify. It is also the reason research has increased to study the affects of psychological distress on peoples’ lives.

From severe backaches, headaches, allergies and asthmas, to weakened immune systems and matters of the heart, more and more studies are showing a correlation to the mind/body connection.

A fine example of this is a study published by the American Academy of Neurology in March 2008. Researchers showed a direct connection between psychological stress and increased risk of stroke. In fact, the more distress was reported, the more risk of stroke increased. It was even more pronounced for those with fatal strokes. Throughout the study, the association between stress and strokes remained the same regardless of other factors such as cigarette smoking, blood pressure, cholesterol, obesity, diabetes, social class, or medical histories.

In looking at annual statistics published in 2008, an estimated 10.9% (over 24 million) U.S. adults suffer from symptoms of severe psychological distress; yet less than half have received help to relieve that suffering. It is unfortunate that so many people do not think of their mental health on the same level as their physical health.

Efforts to get the word out about the importance of mental health have been underway for many years in Clark and Madison Counties. Mental Health Services (MHS) takes care to consistently bring about awareness, educate our communities, help alleviate the stigma of seeking help, provide online confidential screenings and education, and provide those in need with effective care, services and treatments.

People react differently to stressors. Not everyone hit by prolonged difficulties will progress into severe distress. But when anxieties build or depressions deepen, it is time to reach out and seek help from a mental health professional. It is important to make the connection so you and your family can enjoy a peaceful existence and healthier lives.