Mental Health Awareness Month: Mental Health Disorders and Heart Diseases

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.