Understanding Brain Health
Brain health is when the brain works well, helping us think, feel, move, and interact with others. Healthy brain function helps with memory, learning, making decisions, and controlling emotions, allowing people to live a full life and stay independent and active.
While some brain disorders have genetic or biological causes which cannot be prevented, lifestyle choices play a crucial role in maintaining brain function and reducing risk.
Several conditions can affect brain health. The following are examples of conditions, though not exhaustive.
Neurological Disorders
These affect the nervous system, including the brain and nerves.
o Alzheimer’s and Dementia - Progressive memory loss and cognitive decline.
o Stroke - Disrupted blood flow to the brain, leading to weakness or paralysis.
o Parkinson’s disease - Movement disorder causing tremors and stiffness.
o Epilepsy - Recurrent seizures due to abnormal brain activity.
o Brain Tumour - Abnormal growths that affect brain function.
Neurodevelopmental – these begin in childhood and impact learning and behaviour
o Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) - Challenges in social interaction and communication
o ADHD - Difficulty with focus, impulse control, and restlessness
Mental health and Mood Disorders
Brain chemistry imbalances can affect mood, thinking and behaviour.
o Depression - Persistent sadness, fatigue and low motivation
o Anxiety disorders - Excessive worry, rapid, and restlessness
o Schizophrenia - Serious mental disorder affecting thinking, emotions and perception of reality.
Brain Injuries & External Causes
o Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) - Damage from accidents or sports injuries.
o Concussions - A mild TBI causing headaches, dizziness, and memory issues.
Infections
o Meningitis
o Encephalitis
Research shows that regular exercise, a balanced diet, stress management, quality sleep, mental stimulation and social engagement can support health at any age.
These habits not only help prevent neurological and mental health disorders but also improve symptoms and enhance recovery for those already affected.
Meningitis
• Meningitis is an infection that causes inflammation of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
• It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites, with bacterial meningitis being the most severe.
• Symptoms include fever, severe headache, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, and confusion.
• Vaccination, good hygiene, and early treatment are key in preventing and managing the disease.
Meningitis Prevention
• Get vaccinated against bacterial meningitis- there are 2 vaccines covering different subtypes (type B and ACWY).
• Practice good hygiene, including regular handwashing.
• Avoid close contact with individuals who have contagious infections.
• Seek medical attention for persistent fever, headaches, or neck stiffness.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
• TBI occurs when a sudden force or impact injures the brain, often due to falls, accidents, or sports injuries.
• Symptoms range from confusion and dizziness to being unresponsive and unable to wake up.
• It can cause problems with thinking, memory, behavior, and make you more likely to develop brain conditions. For example, someone might forget things easily, act differently than usual, or struggle to focus, and they may be more at risk for conditions like Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease.
• Wearing protective gear, like helmets for sports or biking, using seatbelts, and ensuring safe environments can help prevent traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Protective gear helps cushion the head during falls or impacts, reducing the risk of injury. Car seats keep young children safe, and seatbelts prevent harmful movements during a crash. Safe environments, such as properly designed spaces and well-maintained roads, lower the chances of accidents that could lead to brain injuries.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Prevention
• Wear helmets when cycling, motorbiking, or engaging in contact sports.
• Use seatbelts and ensure car safety measures are followed.
• Prevent falls by keeping home environments safe (e.g., using handrails, removing tripping hazards).
• Avoid risky behaviours that may result in head injuries: This includes things like getting drunk and falling or engaging in activities like not wearing a helmet while biking or skateboarding.
Mental Health Disorders
• Mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia affect emotional, cognitive, and social well-being.
• These disorders can impact brain function, leading to difficulties in thinking, concentration, connections with others and daily activities.
• Chronic stress, social isolation, and genetic factors can contribute to mental health issues.
• Many options exist: therapy, medication, a supportive environment, and self-care strategies can aid in managing these conditions.
Mental Health Support and Prevention
• Engage in regular physical and social activities to support emotional well-being.
• Practice stress management techniques such as mindfulness and meditation.
• Ensure a healthy work-life balance to reduce burnout.
• Seek professional help for persistent anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns.
Dementia
• Dementia is a progressive condition that leads to memory loss, impaired thinking, and difficulties with daily tasks.
• Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, but there are other types of dementia including vascular dementia and Lewy body dementia.
• Risk factors include ageing, high blood pressure, poor lifestyle habits, and genetics.
• Dementia cannot be prevented or delayed, and there is no cure. However, early diagnosis, engaging in cognitive activities such as puzzles or memory exercises, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help slow its progression. A healthy lifestyle is also important. This includes staying physically active with regular exercise, eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, and staying socially connected with friends and family. Other tips include getting enough sleep, learning new things to keep the mind sharp, and managing changes with healthy coping strategies. All of these can help slow the decline and improve well-being for those living with dementia.
Dementia Risk Reduction
• Stay mentally active through learning, problem-solving, and creativity.
• Follow a brain-healthy diet such as the Mediterranean diet.
• Engage in regular exercise, which has been linked to a lower risk of cognitive decline.
• Control chronic health conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes.