Physical health and mental illness

Abstract

People with psychotic illness die on average 25 years earlier than would otherwise be expected. Although some of these early deaths are through suicide and can be related to the patient’s underlying mental health disorder, many are due to physical health problems that in many cases could be prevented. Increased rates of physical disease and premature death are also seen among groups with other mental health problems such as those with chronic depression. This article discusses how GPs can intervene to promote health and wellbeing for patients with ongoing metal health problems with a view to improving long-term physical health outcomes.