Considering mental health when evaluating physical symptoms

Original article published in The Paper

By JENNIFER KERLEY, NP-C For The Paper

Aug 30, 2025

When a patient experiences symptoms like fatigue, headaches, or digestive discomfort, it’s natural to start by looking for a physical cause. Medical testing is vital, playing an essential role in ruling out or identifying underlying conditions.

But it’s equally important to consider how emotional well-being might be contributing to how the body feels and functions.

At Burke Primary Care, we take a comprehensive approach to health care — one that recognizes the deep connection between mind and body.

As a nurse practitioner, I’ve seen time and time again how mental health issues like anxiety, depression, or chronic stress can manifest as physical symptoms that disrupt a person’s daily life.

The Mind-Body Connection Is Real

Symptoms such as insomnia, stomach issues, muscle tension, or even chest pain can sometimes have no clear physical cause. In these cases, mental health may be playing a key role.

Unmanaged emotional stress can wear on the body over time, contributing to inflammation, hormonal imbalance, and even changes in pain perception.

It’s not “all in your head” — it’s very real, and it deserves thoughtful, compassionate attention.

How Family Medicine Makes the Difference

In family medicine, we’re uniquely positioned to recognize patterns across both physical and emotional health. We know our patients over time. We notice when things shift. And we take the time to ask, “How are you, really?”

At Burke Primary Care, we listen not only to your symptoms, but your story. Our goal is to treat the whole person — not just the lab results.

With our onsite laboratory and radiology services, we can quickly evaluate physical symptoms without the need for outside referrals. That means fewer delays, faster answers, and a more streamlined path to treatment.

It also allows us to focus more holistically — asking about sleep, stress, emotional well-being, and lifestyle factors that might be influencing how you feel day to day.

Compassionate Care, Close to Home

We know how difficult it can be to bring up emotional health, especially if you’re used to putting others first. But you deserve care that acknowledges every part of your health.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, emotionally drained, or if your body doesn’t feel “right” despite normal test results, we encourage you to talk to us.

Whether it’s counseling resources, medication options, or stress management techniques, we’ll work with you to find a solution that supports your well-being from all angles.

Your Health Is More Than a Checklist

Mental and physical health are not separate — they are deeply intertwined. Burke Primary Care honors that connection and supports patients with the compassionate, holistic care they deserve.

About Burke Primary Care:

Burke Primary Care is a locally owned, independent practice dedicated to providing the highest-quality medical care to Burke County residents and industry.

The Morganton-based practice offers a comprehensive list of ancillary services under one roof to support the needs of industry and patients of all ages including:

Occupational health; primary care; radiology services; 3D mammography; laboratory pediatric and geriatric care, same day visits for acute care needs, wellness and preventive visits; care for chronic illnesses and sports medicine while being supported by a local hospitalists program for all admissions.

Jennifer Kerley, NP-C, is a board-certified nurse practitioner with Burke Primary Care. She is dedicated to whole-person care and helping patients feel seen, heard, and supported — both physically and emotionally