Most
people believe heart conditions are solely linked with physical activities, but
this is not completely true. Though a lack of exercise and poor diet increases
the risk of heart attacks and other cardiovascular problems, our thoughts,
emotions, and attitudes also accelerate the onset of heart conditions.
Research
shows the chemical and biological factors that contribute to mental health
issues also influence heart disease. Mental health disorders, either short- or
long-term, trigger a person’s behavior, mood, or thinking ability, which could
lead to anxiety, depression, and stress on the body, including the heart.
The connection between mental health disorders and heart disease
People
experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, and PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress
Disorder) over a long period may also experience physiologic effects on the
body - including the reduced flow of blood to the heart, increased levels of
cortisol, and cardiac reactivity, such as increased blood pressure and heart
rate. These physiologic effects may further cause metabolic and heart
disease.
Research
also shows certain mental health disorders - such as anxiety, PTSD, and
depression - may develop after a cardiac event, such as heart attack and
stroke. An acute heart disease event may trigger a fear of death or disability
or cause financial problems, which further contributes to these mental health
disorders.
Certain
mental health disorders, such as stress and anxiety, may increase the chances
of adopting unhealthy habits like smoking, drinking, and failing to take
prescribed medications. People use these unhealthy coping strategies to deal
with stressful situations, which increase the risk of developing heart
disease.
What should you do?
Get
in touch with your healthcare provider to discuss how you are feeling, both
physically and mentally. Someone who is clinically depressed needs follow-up
care, therefore, adopt healthy eating habits and an active lifestyle. Besides,
monitor yourself using a Holter
monitor system, especially if you are dealing with
heart disease or stroke.
