"Severe mental illness linked to significantly higher risk of physical health problems, study finds"
Individuals with severe mental illnesses are nearly twice as likely to experience multiple physical health problems compared to those without such mental conditions, according to a meta-analysis of 19 studies involving nearly 8 million participants. The research highlights the complex relationship between mental and physical health, with conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and severe depression associated with a 1.84 times higher risk of physical multimorbidity. This increased risk poses a significant burden on individuals, impacting their healthcare needs and life expectancy. The study emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to healthcare that integrates the treatment of severe mental illnesses with the management of physical health conditions.
