WCMC-Q program highlights the importance of mental health to overall physical health

Mental health professionals from Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar and the community highlighted the importance of mental health to overall physical health during a presentation Sunday as part of the medical college's recognition of World Mental Health Day.

"The occasion is a welcome opportunity to focus on the role of mental health as a crucial component of overall health and well being," said Javaid Sheikh, MD, interim dean of WCMC-Q. "As educators of tomorrow's physicians, we understand the need to integrate mental health care into primary care as a way to improve the health of people around the world."

"Mental health disorders occur at all stages of life and in all cultures," said Ziad Kronfol, MD, associate professor of psychiatry at WCMC-Q. "Depression, in particular, is a leading cause of disability worldwide," said Dr. Kronfol, who discussed the relationship between depression and physical health.  "Research studies have shown that depression is a common complication of other chronic diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, arthritis or kidney disease," said Kronfol.

Treating co-existing depression can help improve a person's overall medical condition and quality of life, added Kronfol.

In the past several decades, significant progress has been made in developing treatment for mental disorders.  New medications successfully treat a variety of conditions, notably, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and anxiety disorders; and there has been great progress in psychotherapeutic treatments, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy and interpersonal therapy, according to Kronfol.

"By increasing awareness of the disorder and the available treatments, we can reduce much unnecessary suffering around the world," said Kronfol.

Anxiety and its effect on performance was discussed by Patti Collins, a licensed professional counselor with expertise in biofeedback therapy.  "Anxiety affects our whole being and has very real physical symptoms," said Collins.  "We all become anxious from time to time.  It becomes a problem when it interferes with life in the absence of a real threat or goes on too long after the danger has past."

There are strategies to help people manage stress and reduce anxiety, according to Collins.  "Learn a variety of relaxation techniques, like physical relaxation methods and meditation.  They really do help."  Other strategies include taking care of the physical self with a healthy diet, regular exercise and plenty of sleep; deep abdominal breathing that promotes relaxation; and replacing negative thoughts with more positive, believable thoughts. 

Trauma and resilience was the topic discussed by Joan Lanning, PhD, director of the Employee Assistance Program at WCMC-Q, who organized the medical college's activities to support World Mental Health Day.

"Resilience has been characterized as the ability to handle setbacks, persevere and adapt even when things go awry," said Lanning.  "Most adults demonstrate resilience, but some individuals are naturally more vulnerable than others." Several strategies can be used to build resilience, she added.  These strategies include developing a strong social network, learning to accept change and taking decisive action as much as possible. 

"You can't change the fact that highly stressful events happen, but you can change how you interpret and respond to these events," said Lanning.  "Try to look beyond he present to future circumstances that may be a little better. Take note of any subtle ways in which you might already feel somewhat better as you deal with difficult situations."