Mental Health: The Invisible Half of Longevity

We measure our blood values, count our steps, track our sleep. But what about the state of our mind? As the World Health Organization defines it, health is not merely the absence of disease; it is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being. The invisible half of longevity lies right here.

Mind and body are parts of the same story

Depression is among the leading causes of disability worldwide. Long-term stress, anxiety and depression can become intertwined with cardiovascular disease, sleep problems and unhealthy lifestyle habits. Conversely, a good state of mind makes it easier to move, eat well and build social connections.

The science of optimism

In a study published in PNAS in 2019 that followed tens of thousands of people for years, those in the most optimistic group lived on average 11–15 percent longer than those in the least optimistic group, and were more likely to reach the age of 85.

This is an association; it does not prove that optimism alone extends life. But here's the good news: according to researchers, optimism is partly a trait that can be learned and cultivated.

Psychological support is not a weakness, it's a form of care

We consider it natural to see a doctor for our bodies; seeking support for our minds, however, can still feel like a step we hesitate to take. Yet numerous studies have shown that psychotherapy is effective for depression and anxiety disorders. Psychologists and psychiatrists are companions on the journey not only in solving problems, but also in helping people recognize their own inner resources and build a more functional life.

In the medicine of the future, mental health is expected to be addressed holistically, together with sleep, movement, nutrition and social life.

Mind Reset: Five touches for the mind

1. Move: Regular physical activity also has positive effects on mood.
2. Protect your sleep: Sleeplessness is one of the first things to shake our emotional balance.
3. Connect: Talking regularly with someone you trust is one of the oldest and most powerful "therapies." (See Social Connection)
4. Return to your breath: Short exercises focused on slow, long exhalations can calm the stress response.
5. Gratitude and meaning: Writing down three things that went well at the end of the day is a simple way to retrain our attention.

When to seek support

Low mood lasting more than two weeks, loss of interest, changes in sleep and appetite, difficulty keeping up with daily tasks, or a sense of hopelessness are all good reasons to consult a professional. If you are having thoughts of harming yourself, don't wait: call your local emergency number (112 in Türkiye and across Europe) or go to the nearest emergency room.

The secret of a long life lies not only in our cells, but also in how we feel, who we laugh with and how we look at life.

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Sources

• Lee LO, et al. Optimism is associated with exceptional longevity in 2 epidemiologic cohorts of men and women. PNAS, 2019.
• World Health Organization. Depressive disorder (depression) (fact sheet).