February is American Heart Month
Your heart is a sacred organ that deserves your compassion and consideration. In honor of American Heart Month, let’s talk about some of the connections between your heart and mental health.
Did you know that chronic depression, stress, and PTSD can increase heart rate and blood pressure?
“Over time the physiologic effects lead to calcium buildup in the arteries, metabolic disease, and heart disease”, according to the Centers for Disease Control.
People who struggle with depression may be more prone to habits such as: drinking alcohol in excess, smoking, and taking other recreational substances; all of which put you at greater risk for heart disease.
If you find yourself clinging to a vice, go within:
What is your heart telling you?
Are you feeling stressed?
Have you recently had a heart condition such as a stroke, blood clot, etc., and are worried about how it may effect you emotionally?
Take note of what has been happening in your life and the ways in which it can disturb the health of your heart. Stress, caused by depression and anxiety can increase cortisol levels, leading to heart arrhythmia, high blood pressure, and heart damage.
healthy heart, healthy mind.
If you’re concerned about heart disease and/or depression, speak with your primary and mental health care providers.
Wishing you (and your heart) health and wellness,
Dakia Davis, LCSW
Private Practice Owner & Therapist