When we talk about heart health, we often focus on diet, exercise, and cholesterol—but what about mental health? Chronic stress, depression, and anxiety are not just emotional issues. They can also increase your risk for heart disease, especially for women.
How Stress Affects the Heart:
- Raises Blood Pressure
- Triggers Inflammation
- Encourages Unhealthy Coping (like overeating or alcohol use)
Women are more likely than men to experience stress-related heart symptoms, including chest pain, fatigue, and heart palpitations. Conditions like depression and PTSD also raise the risk of heart disease by as much as 50–60%.
Real Talk: We Can’t Heal the Heart Without the Mind
This Emotional Wellness Month, WomenHeart urges women to treat mental health as part of their overall care plan. Support groups, therapy, meditation, and even basic rest can reduce heart strain. One WomenHeart Champion, Denise, credits joining a support group for saving both her heart and her spirit.
What You Can Do:
- Get Screened: Ask your doctor to screen you for depression or anxiety.
- Practice Self-Compassion: It’s not just okay—it’s necessary.
- Join a Community: WomenHeart Support Networks help women connect and heal.
“Caring for the Whole You: Mental and Emotional Health in Managing Chronic Conditions”
