"When invalids have nothing to occupy their time and attention, their thoughts become centered upon themselves, and they grow morbid and irritable. Many times they dwell upon their bad feelings until they think themselves much worse than they really are and wholly unable to do anything. MH 239.1"
"A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones."
The EGW quote describes the negative effects of inactivity and self-absorption on invalids, leading to a morbid and irritable state. This aligns with the sentiment in Proverbs 17:22, which contrasts a merry heart with a broken spirit and its detrimental effects. Both passages highlight the connection between mental/emotional state and physical well-being.