The Link Between Heart Disease & Depression

For years, physicians have been studying the relationship between heart disease and depression, and many believe that these two disabling diseases share a connection. In fact, the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute stated, “At least a quarter of cardiac patients suffer with depression, and adults with depression often develop heart disease.” Right now, scientists have not identified the direct link between the two, but they have uncovered some reasons why one might cause the other. 

A Two-Way Relationship

Dr. Roy Ziegelstein from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine reported that “one in five who have a heart attack are found to have depression soon after the heart attack.” Depression is also prevalent in people with heart failure. Heart attacks can impact more than just the heart, they can also affect a person’s mood, certainty about the future and confidence, as well as cause feelings of guilt, embarrassment and self-doubt. These types of emotions can lead to anxiety and depression. 

On the other side, people with depression often experience nervous system dysfunction, heightened cortisol levels and chronic inflammation. Stress, anxiety and depression can lead people to make unhealthy lifestyle choices, like excess drinking, smoking and binge eating, all of which can lead to heart-related issues in the long term. Some people with depression have also been found to have sticky platelets aka tiny cells that cause blood clots, which increases the risk of heart disease. 

How to Reduce Anxiety & Depression

Seek Out Help

Sometimes you might feel down for a few days, but if this continues for weeks or more, it’s time to address the issue head-on. We recommend first speaking with a licensed therapist who can help you find ways to deal with your depression, whether that be with lifestyle modifications or medication.

Implement Healthy Habits

Doing good things for yourself will help your mind and body feel better. Try cooking a new healthy recipe once a week. Go for a 10-minute walk on your lunch break. Meet up with a friend for coffee. Whatever you choose, make sure that you are taking time for yourself every day. 

Create a Routine

When people are experiencing stress, anxiety and depression, they might sleep poorly and not eat regularly, both of which can increase the effects of depression. If you’re experiencing those feelings, try to create and stick to a routine. Get up at the same time every day. Cook meals you love to encourage yourself to eat. And spend an hour or two winding down before bed to help you get a more restful sleep.

If you or someone you love has recently been diagnosed with heart disease and are experiencing symptoms of depression, we recommend reaching out to a licensed professional or calling the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 to speak to one of their care providers.