Some of the most commonly studied mental health disorders associated with heart disease or chronic heart condition (or related risk factors) include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and chronic stress, notes the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
While many may not realize that mental and heart health are linked at all, those that live with a chronic cardiovascular condition must prioritize both in order to maintain physical and mental health.
This can become a challenge, however, especially after a heart event or procedure. Through efforts such as routine therapy and a strong support network, patients can effectively prioritize mental health in the wake of a diagnosis.
On this post, let’s take a closer look at what life is like, living with a chronic heart condition and the role that mental health care plays for someone with this condition.
The Profound Link Between Chronic Heart Condition and the Brain
Heart health and mental health are closely linked. For example, conditions such as anxiety and depression can develop after a heart attack or heart surgery.
The American Heart Association points out the increased evidence that shows biological and chemical factors that trigger mental health issues, which may influence heart disease as well. This highlights the fact that heart conditions and mental health can affect one another.
While heart disease or stroke can result in anxiety or depression, it’s noted that daily stressors can increase the risk of heart disease. The American Heart Association goes on to point out that social isolation and loneliness (which are known sources of stress), are linked to an increased risk of heart attack or stroke. This underlines the importance of mental health care for those with and without heart conditions.
“When you’re stressed, anxious or depressed, you may feel overwhelmed, and your heart rate and blood pressure rises,” explains Garima Sharma, M.B.B.S., associate professor of medicine at Johns Hopkins Medicine.
Sharma is also the senior author of a study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, which revealed that young adults who self-reported feelings of depression or poor mental health experienced higher rates of heart attacks, strokes and risk factors for heart disease when compared with peers without mental health issues.
Mental Health Maintenance — A Routine Necessity
Due to the undeniable link between the heart and the brain, anyone with a heart condition should keep a close eye on their mental health on a regular basis, regardless as to whether a mental health concern is already present.
Chronic heart conditions often come with limitations, whether it be in the form of dietary restrictions or lifestyle changes — especially if you’re newly diagnosed.
These can result in complex emotions — for example, not being able to participate in certain activities can result in feelings of loneliness. On the other hand, those that already experience a mental health condition may experience difficulty with associated symptoms that can interfere with everyday life.
While routine therapy can help patients keep their emotions and general mental health in check, it’s important to make it a point to take on activities that are beneficial to mental health as well. For example, a simple activity like coloring can promote mindfulness and relieve stress.
Significant cardiac events can cause even more cause for concern when it comes to mental health. The Cleveland Clinic highlights the importance of mental health maintenance after a heart health event, which can result in clear changes to your lifestyle.
For example, after a heart attack, you may feel uncertain about the future. “When your life gets disrupted in a major way, it’s understandable and expected that you will experience some strong emotions,” says psychiatrist Leopoldo Pozuelo, MD.
Sadness, worry, and fatigue are all factors that can come into play, though it’s noted that this “funk” should be temporary as you adjust to a routine. With that in mind, it’s essential to discuss your mental health with a medical professional, as it’s noted that depression can put your recovery at risk.
The Value of Support After An Operation
In addition to the everyday changes that life with a chronic heart condition can involve, routine hospital visits can result in additional stress and worry. Such emotions can multiply, however, when a procedure may be needed.
Coronary angioplasty and stenting, for example, is defined as a procedure used to treat coronary artery disease. As coronary artery disease involves blocked or narrowed arteries, an angioplasty aims to open the affected arteries through the use of a catheter.
Typically, this procedure is combined with stenting — a small wire mesh that is left in place in order to help the artery stay both open and therefore functional. A stent operation ultimately aims to ensure that more blood can reach the heart, which will help minimize symptoms like chest pain, breathlessness, and dizziness.
While daily activities can usually be resumed in two days (though heavy lifting should be avoided for a week), it’s important to remember that any procedure can be an endeavor of its own in regard to mental health.
From the proposition of a procedure to the recovery period, patients must remember to keep mental health a priority. A strong support system is a must have for anyone throughout life, though can be a particularly crucial factor when a procedure is needed. VeryWell Mind stresses the value that social support can have in regard to psychological health.
For instance, it’s noted that support can help you to cope with stress, improve your motivation, and can even help influence healthy choices and behaviors. After a heart procedure, for example, a family member or friend can help you to stay motivated throughout recovery, help you remember to take your medication, and can provide valuable companionship as you recover.
Don’t Ignore Your Mental Health
Life with a chronic heart condition can present a variety of challenges, from diet restrictions to lifestyle changes. However, it’s essential to think about how a heart condition can affect your mental health — and vice versa.
In addition to routine mental health care, patients must factor in the impact of events such as operations in order to effectively prioritize mental health throughout all aspects of a heart condition.