Having poor mental health increases our risk of poor physical health. Conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes and obesity. These are some of the findings of a commission into the physical health of people with mental illness. The findings highlight how poor physical health can often mean poor personal and social wellbeing. Poor physical and mental health also means medical and other costs increases and impacts on our lives. People with major depression are more likely to smoke and have a poor diet than the general population. The research also shows that one in five people with anxiety disorders misuse alcohol, and people with social phobia are physically active because of their condition. Sometimes medications for some mental health conditions are needed and these can slow people down. Looking after the physical side of a person’s health when the side effects of psychiatric medications can affect them should be part of their health care. The commission’s findings show the importance of early intervention during the initial stages of illness. They also suggested that multidisciplinary lifestyle treatments can be effective. These should target a range of health behaviours, like physical activity and healthy eating. At Retreat South we value a holistic approach to the treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other conditions. Physical activity and healthy eating are an equally important part of how we tailor a treatment plan to suit the needs of each of our clients. Treatments are one-on-one so activity-based therapy goes at your own pace and physical requirements. To find out more about how Retreat South can help you on the path to emotional and physical recovery, contact us here or call us on +61 3 5568 4155