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We’ve all heard eating healthy and getting enough exercise is good for our heart, but your mental health can impact your heart as well. Research shows that conditions like chronic stress, depression and anxiety can lead to an increased risk of heart attack or stroke, according to the American Heart Association. With half of U.S. adults reporting COVID-19 has negatively impacted their mental health, right now it’s critical that we take time de-stress for both our mental and physical health.
How can stress effect my heart’s health?
Too often in our society stress is considered one of the costs of having an active and productive life. But when we’re under stress, we often lean on unhealthy habits to cope such as smoking, overeating, not exercising or eating unhealthy foods. In addition to those unhealthy habits, letting stress affect us too much can lead to serious health problems over time that increase our risk for heart attack and stroke, such as:
• High blood pressure
• Reduced blood flow to the heart
• Irregular heart rate and rhythm
• Obesity
Studies show that people with positive mental health, including manageable stress levels, are more likely have lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol, and less inflammation.
How do I manage my stress and take care of my heart?
We’ll never eliminate stress, but we can prevent long-term health problems by training our body and mind to react positively to whatever life throws at us.
Just breathe. Even short breaks focused on breathing can help you relax, which in turn helps your heart. Breathing exercises can also reduce anxious feelings and regain calm and balance.
Keep moving. Exercise releases endorphins which is our body’s feel-good chemical. This helps relieve stress and improve our mood.
Hit the hay. Evidence suggests that poor sleep can exacerbate depression and other mental health issues. Try to get seven to nine hours of sleep a night.
Stay connected. Social connections with people we trust are important. Take a 60-second break to call or message a friend – even if it’s just to say, “hello!”
Find your jam. Music can have a profound effect on our emotions and brain function. Listen to your favorite soothing songs to help your mind and body relax. Or crank up something high energy if you need to dance off some frustration.
If you’re struggling with high levels of stress, high blood pressure or other conditions that put you at risk for heart attack or stroke, it’s important to also consult with your doctor on additional steps you can take to improve your heart health and mental well-being.
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Dell Richards
