Dallas, Texas – The phrase “healthy mind, healthy body” may never have been as relevant as in a new study on heart health. American Heart Association researchers say positive mental health and optimism about life can reduce a person’s chances of developing heart disease.
“A person’s mind, heart and body are all interconnected and interdependent in what can be called ‘the mind-heart-body connection’,” says Glenn N. Levine, MD, FAHA, of the Baylor College of Medicine and the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center in a news release. “Research has clearly shown that negative psychological factors, personality traits and mental disorders can negatively impact cardiovascular health. On the other hand, studies have found that positive psychological attributes are associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality. “
Poor mental health can be fatal
Just as staying positive can improve life expectancy, the researchers found that negative psychological health can be just as bad for health. According to researchers, mental health conditions such as depression, stress, anxiety and anger can lead to the development of heart disease risks.
The study found that patients who deal with these psychological problems generally have an increased risk of heart rate and rhythm abnormalities, digestive problems, high blood pressure, chronic inflammation and less blood flow to the heart.
These mental conditions are also linked to behaviors that can put patients at increased risk of heart attack or stroke. The study authors found that patients who deal with negative psychological health tend to be smokers, physically inactive, overweight or do not take their medications.
The researchers recommend that regular mental health checkups be part of the standard check-up for cardiovascular disease. The study authors note that psychological therapy and similar programs can positively impact cardiovascular health.
Along with unhealthy habits and a poor mental state, the study found that daily stressors and traumatic events can also lead to heart disease or stroke. Patients who report having work-related stress and high stress in general have a 40% higher risk of dying from cardiovascular disease.
“Most psychological health studies are observational, with many involving patient self-reports, which presents challenges for establishing specific cause and effect relationships,” explains Levine. “However, the preponderance of such studies is highly suggestive and allows us to draw reasonable conclusions about an association between negative psychological health and cardiovascular risk.”
Being happy can save your life
When you literally see the good in things, researchers discover a number of health benefits.
“The data is consistent, suggesting that positive psychological traits play a role in better cardiovascular health,” adds Levine.
The study authors found that people with a positive mental state are more likely to have lower blood pressure, better glucose control, less inflammation and lower cholesterol. These people are also more likely to quit smoking, become more active and follow a healthy diet.
Positive mental health is not just about how you think. The researchers say that people with better mental health generally have more positive social relationships and a larger support network.
“Well-being 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 the negative aspects of psychological health and promote a state of being positive and healthy in general. In patients with or at risk for heart disease, health professionals need to address the patient’s mental well-being in conjunction with the physical conditions that affect the body, such as blood pressure, cholesterol levels, chest pain, etc. ”, doctor Baylor’s master and professor of medicine concludes.
The study appears in the journal Circulation.