DALLAS, Texas – The phrase “healthy mind, healthy body” has perhaps never been as relevant as in a new study on heart health. Researchers from the American Heart Association say positive mental health and the fact that they remain optimistic about life can reduce the chance of heart disease.
“One’s mind, heart and body are all interconnected and interdependent which can be called ‘mind-heart-body connection’,” said Glenn N. Levine, managing director, FAHA, of Baylor College of Medicine Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center in a media statement. “Research has clearly shown that negative psychological factors, personality traits and mental disorders can negatively affect cardiovascular health. On the other hand, studies have found that positive psychological traits are associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and death. “
Poor mental health can be fatal
Just as improving positivity can improve life expectancy, researchers find that negative psychological health can be just as bad for your health. According to researchers, mental health conditions such as depression, stress, anxiety and anger can all lead to the development of heart disease.
The study found that patients dealing with these psychological problems generally have a higher risk of heartbeat and arrhythmias, digestive problems, high blood pressure, chronic inflammation and less blood supply to the heart.
These mental states are also related to behaviors that can put patients at greater risk for a heart attack or stroke. Study authors find that patients with negative psychological health tend to be smokers, physically inactive, overweight or not using their medication.
Researchers recommend that regular mental health examinations be part of the standard examination for cardiovascular disease. Study authors note that psychological therapy and similar programs can positively affect cardiovascular health.
Along with unhealthy habits and a poor mental state, the study finds daily stressors and traumatic events can also lead to heart disease or stroke. Patients who self-report, both work-related and high-stress, have a 40 percent higher risk of dying from cardiovascular disease.
“Most psychological health studies are observational, while many involve self-reporting of patients, which presents challenges in determining specific cause and effect relationships,” Levine explains. However, a predominance of such studies is very suggestive and leads one to draw reasonable conclusions about a link between negative psychological health and cardiovascular risk. ‘
Being happy can save your life
If you literally look at the bright side of things, researchers find a huge number of health benefits.
“The data are consistent, suggesting that positive psychological traits play a role in better cardiovascular health,” Levine adds.
Study authors find that people with a positive mental state are more likely to enjoy lower blood pressure, better glucose control, less inflammation and lower cholesterol. These people are more likely to quit smoking, become more active and follow a healthy diet.
However, positive mental health is not just about how you think. According to researchers, people with better mental health usually have more positive social relationships and a larger support network.
‘Wellness is more than just the absence of disease. It is an active process aimed at a healthier, happier and more fulfilling life, and we must strive to reduce negative aspects of psychological health and be in an overall positive and healthy state. In patients with or at risk for heart disease, healthcare professionals should address the patient’s mental well-being, along with the physical conditions affecting the body, such as blood pressure, cholesterol levels, chest pain, and so on. ” Professor of Medicine concludes.
The study appears in the journal Circulation.