Physical comorbidities in patients with severe mental disorders: a brief narrative review on current challenges and practical implications for professionals

Riv Psichiatr. 2022 Nov-Dec;57(6):251-257. doi: 10.1708/3922.39071.

Abstract

A paradox of the modern world is represented by the increasing rate of comorbidities, although the life expectancy is increasing worldwide, the number of disease-free years is not improving consequently. Physical comorbidities are often overlooked in people with severe mental disorders, although this problem needs to be adequately managed since it is associated with a worse quality of life and a poorer personal and social functioning. In this paper, we aim to: 1) carry out a narrative review of the recent literature in order to provide an update on the prevalence and incidence of the most frequent comorbid physical disorders in people with severe mental disorders; 2) highlight the most important difficulties in managing comorbidities in people with severe mental disorders in ordinary clinical care; 3) discuss possible solutions to overcome those difficulties, particularly through the role of education and scientific associations.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Comorbidity
  • Educational Status
  • Humans
  • Mental Disorders* / complications
  • Mental Disorders* / epidemiology
  • Mental Disorders* / therapy
  • Patients
  • Quality of Life*