Certain mental health factors are linked to increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease including feelings of hostility, continual stress, and depression. The INTERHEART study,1 which included more than 24,000 individuals, found that these stress indicators played a contributing role in 32% of all heart attacks that occurred during the study.
- Persons with continually high levels of stress at work or home were twice as likely to experience a heart attack versus those who had low stress levels.
- Persons who frequently felt sad or depressed had a 55% increased risk of a heart attack versus those who were happy and not depressed.
- People who had stressful life events (e.g., business failure, major family conflict, death of a spouse, etc.) in the past year were 48% more likely to have a heart attack versus those who didn’t experience major life events.
How can you improve mental health?
From this and other research it has become apparent that the following mental health strategies may help promote a healthy heart and reduce the risk for heart attacks:
- Limit hostility by learning forgiveness and other ways to diffuse anger.
- Maintain a cheerful, hopeful, outlook on life. Get help from your doctor or a mental health counselor if you have continual feeling of sadness or depression.
- Learn good coping skills that can help prevent stress. Take time for relaxation and time to unwind daily. Participate in enjoyable activities daily to relieve stress and tension.
- Develop a good support system – family and friends who can help and encourage you during difficult times or periods of emotional turmoil.
- Be physically active. Physical exertion is a good way to reduce stress in the body and improve mental outlook and mood.
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