Happy Mood - Happier Heart!
Our heart health and our mood are interconnected.
As we embark on American Heart Month, which falls in the middle of the winter doldrums, let’s consider an often-overlooked aspect of cardiovascular health – mood.
A large body of scientific research has shown a strong link between cardiovascular disease and depression. And that link appears to go both ways – depression is an independent risk factor for heart disease, and those with pre-existing heart disease are more likely to suffer from depression and have worse health outcomes as a result.
The connection between heart health and mood is not entirely clear yet, but we do have some clues. People with heart disease who experience depression may have less motivation to comply with treatment guidelines, such as dietary changes, exercise regimens and medication protocols. Those with depression may be at risk for developing heart disease due to chronic elevations of stress hormones, increased inflammation, anxiety, sleep issues and certain behavioral patterns, including decreased physical activity, poor dietary choices and social isolation.
Fortunately, there are many treatment options for depression and the anxiety that often accompanies it. These include more conventional treatments like antidepressants and cognitive behavioral therapy as well as natural therapies, like vitamins/minerals, herbs, amino acids, homeopathy and others, which can often work in conjunction with conventional options. At the Stram Center, patients receive customized wellness plans that address their unique set of factors contributing to depression or anxiety.
Considering that heart disease remains the leading cause of death in both men and women in the U.S., it’s important not to overlook the role that mood could be playing in your own health or that of a loved one. So please take the time to truly reflect on your mood and take action; your heart may very well thank you.
