13/12/2025
**How Physical Health Affects Our Mood*
Mood and physical health are *deeply interconnected*. When one improves or declines, the other often follows. Here’s a concise guide to the key links and practical implications.
*Core Connections*
1. *Nervous system and brain chemistry*
Physical health conditions (e.g., inflammation, hormonal imbalances) can alter neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and cortisol, thereby influencing mood.
- Sleep quality, which is shaped by physical health, strongly affects mood regulation.
2. *Energy and fatigue*
- Chronic illnesses, anemia, thyroid issues, and metabolic disorders can cause fatigue, leading to irritability, low motivation, and low mood
3. *Inflammation and immune function*
- Low-grade chronic inflammation is associated with anxiety and depression in some people. Fitness, nutrition, and sleep can modulate inflammatory markers.
4. *Hormones*
- Hormonal fluctuations (e.g., puberty, menopause, menstrual cycle, thyroid hormones) impact mood, energy, and emotional stability.
5. *Nutrition and gut health*
- Nutrient deficiencies (e.g., iron, vitamin D, B vitamins) can affect mood.
- The gut-brain axis: gut microbiota influence mood via metabolites, inflammation, and neural signaling.
6. *Physical activity*
- Regular exercise releases endorphins and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), improving mood and reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety.
- Sedentary behavior is linked with worse mood and cognitive function.
7. *Sleep*
- Poor sleep or sleep disorders can lead to irritability, reduced emotional regulation, and a higher risk of mood disorders.
8. **Chronic pain and disability**
- Persistent pain can lead to emotional distress, diminished mood, and social withdrawal.
9. **Medical treatments and substances**
- Some medications (e.g., certain antihypertensives, steroids) can affect mood.
- Alcohol and illicit drugs can have immediate and long-term effects on mood, sleep, and overall health.