New research shows that being hospitalized for heart problems or stroke can greatly increase the chances of developing anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts, especially in the first year after the event.
This study, published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, highlights the significant connection between heart-related health issues and mental health challenges.
Dr. Huan Song, a professor of epidemiology at Sichuan University in China, emphasized the importance of caring for both physical and mental health after a heart disease diagnosis.
“If you or someone you love has been hospitalized for heart disease, it’s essential to be aware of potential mental health issues during recovery,” Song said. “Watch for signs of anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts. These problems are common but treatable.”
Previous studies have already indicated that people with heart diseases are at a higher risk of psychiatric issues like anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. However, many of these studies did not consider the impact of environmental and lifestyle factors on these risks.
In this new study, researchers used data from the UK Biobank, a large health database in the United Kingdom. They looked at information from 63,923 people who were hospitalized for heart problems between 1997 and 2020 and compared it with data from 127,845 people without heart disease.
They wanted to understand how lifestyle and environment influenced the risk of developing psychiatric disorders and whether genetic factors played a role.
The researchers defined heart disease broadly, including conditions like ischemic heart disease, strokes, blood clots, heart failure, irregular heart rhythms, and other heart-related issues.
The median age of participants was 63, and they were followed for about seven and a half years on average. The study examined how often these individuals developed conditions such as anxiety, depression, stress-related disorders, substance abuse, psychotic disorders, or engaged in suicidal behaviors.
The study found that people who were hospitalized for heart-related issues were 83% more likely to be diagnosed with a mental health condition within a year compared to those without heart disease.
This increased risk was especially noticeable for anxiety, depression, and suicidal behaviors. The risk remained higher even after the first year, with these individuals being 24% more likely to develop a psychiatric disorder compared to those without heart disease.
The study showed that people who had strokes or other cerebrovascular diseases were at a particularly high risk. They had over three times the likelihood of developing psychiatric disorders and suicidal thoughts within the first year of hospitalization and a 49% higher risk even after the first year.
Dr. Song advised that people experiencing suicidal thoughts should seek immediate help by contacting emergency services, visiting the nearest emergency room, dialing 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or reaching out to local mental health crisis services.
“Patients should inform their healthcare providers about any mental health symptoms,” Song added. “Healthcare professionals can offer support, refer patients to mental health specialists, or adjust treatment plans.
It’s crucial to seek help from therapists, counselors, or psychiatrists if you’re struggling. Sharing your feelings with family, friends, or support groups can also provide emotional support and help you navigate these challenges.”
This study underscores the importance of monitoring and addressing mental health in patients recovering from heart disease or stroke. It highlights the intertwined nature of physical and mental health and the need for comprehensive care strategies to support patients in their recovery journey.
If you care about heart health, please read studies about top foods to love for a stronger heart, and why oranges may help fight obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
For more health information, please see recent studies about simple guide to a 7-day diabetes meal plan, and why you should add black beans to your plate.
The research findings can be found in the Journal of the American Heart Association.
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