As we mark Mental Health Week in Canada, there’s no better time to acknowledge a truth that’s increasingly supported by research and lived experience alike: our physical and mental health are deeply interconnected.
At SOMA, we complete independent medical assessments that consider the whole person, not just isolated symptoms - because treating physical and mental health separately does a disservice to patients, care providers, and the health system at large. Whether an individual is navigating a workplace injury, a chronic illness, or a mental health-related disability claim, we believe that the most effective assessments and care plans are those that recognize the mind-body connection.
It’s no secret that physical health conditions can trigger or worsen mental health issues—and vice versa.
This isn’t anecdotal—it’s biological. Stress, trauma, and prolonged emotional strain can alter everything from immune response to hormone levels. Likewise, persistent physical ailments can erode mental resilience and strain coping mechanisms.
In traditional models of care, mental and physical health have often been siloed, referred out to separate professionals with little communication between them. While specialized expertise is important, fragmented care can lead to:
For patients seeking clarity on their condition, especially in the context of disability claims, this lack of integration can be overwhelming and disempowering.
At SOMA Medical, we can provide integrated assessments that consider both physical and psychological factors. Our independent medical evaluations often involve input from multidisciplinary professionals, such as physicians, psychologists, and rehabilitation specialists, who work together to build a complete picture of the individual's health, functionality, and work capacity.
This holistic approach offers several benefits:
In other words, we assess the person, not just the problem.
For employers, case managers, and insurers, integrated assessments mean better outcomes for everyone involved. They reduce the risk of repeated claims, chronic absenteeism, and unsupported return-to-work attempts. More importantly, they show that your organization values comprehensive, compassionate care.
Mental health challenges are often hidden behind physical complaints, and vice versa. A one-dimensional assessment can miss critical context. But a truly holistic evaluation can uncover the root causes, highlight realistic capabilities, and provide a clear path forward.
As awareness of mental health grows, so too must our approach to care. We are all complex beings with interconnected systems - what affects the mind impacts the body, and what impacts the body shapes the mind.
During this Mental Health Week, let’s move beyond awareness and into action. Let’s rethink how we assess, support, and understand health in all its forms.
Our team is committed to advancing independent medical assessments that reflect today’s understanding of integrated health care. Whether it’s for a mental health-related disability claim, a workplace injury with psychological implications, or a chronic illness requiring multifaceted care, SOMA Medical provides assessments you can trust - for the whole person, every time.
Want to learn more about how SOMA Medical can assist you with IMEs? Get in touch with us today.