Physical health and mental health are linked

“Housing, employment, infrastructure, climate, social activity and travel all influence health. A healthy body depends on a healthy mind. Yes, that’s true and vice versa. But , physical health and mental health depend on all the factors mentioned above and many more. This is the major enlightenment of this decade,” said Health Minister Joe Cassar.

Speaking at the Malta Student Science Forum, Dr Cassar said: Physical and mental health are interdependent dyads amidst a myriad of influencing factors. This is the foundational argument we are currently building on, and the pivotal approach we currently support. ”

The government-wide mental health strategy being rolled out in the UK incorporates this awareness. He added that the UK Government has embarked on a strategy that contributes not only to the health and social care sectors, but also to the housing, environment and employment sectors within government in tackling the mental health of the population.

“Here as the Maltese Government, we have been working along the same path for the past few years. For example, the Healthy Weight (Obesity) Strategy launched by the Ministry of Health last year has been a key initiative for all departments within Government. Leveraging contributions and directing those contributions. This strategy appeals to authorities, organizations and services beyond the medical sector. Our cancer strategy reflects the same approach.

“We are starting down this path. So, as I open this forum today, this is my message to you: human health as part of, and within the context of, the wider world inhabited by humans. Let’s look at it and work on it.” This is the way forward. ”