With the Holiday season in full swing, it might be hard to think about how cardiometabolic risk (CMR) could affect you. Cardiometabolic risk refers to your chances of having diabetes, heart disease or stroke. People with mental illness are at higher risk for developing these conditions.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in people with mental illness. Diabetes is also an especially prevalent disease that can lead to many other health problems. It is important to know what your level of risk and how to decrease that risk for a longer and healthier life. Lowering your cardiometabolic risk can help prevent more serious health problems down the road.

Studies have shown that people who have serious mental illness died on average 25 years younger than the general population. We have a multi-pronged approach to addressing this problem. The William F. Ryan Health Center, a federally qualified health center, operates a primary care clinic at The Bridge. Through this partnership at The Bridge, we carefully monitor cardiometabolic risk factors among our clients. We also promote good health and health prevention through our Wellness Self-Management, Diabetes Management and Smoke Stop Programs and through our exercise and nutrition programs. These programs have made a significant difference at The Bridge where our clients enjoy much better health outcomes than the general population of persons with mental illness.


Healthy lifestyle changes can make a difference in lowering your cardiometabolic risk. Quitting smoking, eating healthier, and exercising can help. It can be hard to rely on will power alone to help make these lifestyle changes. Incorporating healthy practices into your life gradually, and making them automatic habits like brushing your teeth, can improve your chances of keeping them up for the long run.