This month much is being said about cardiovascular health and the benefits of being “heart healthy.” Even with all that good information circulating, 60 percent of Americans are still expected to experience heart disease within their lifetime. While factors such as weight, diet, ethnicity and exercise play their part in heart disease risk factors, so does the state of one’s mind. Depression and unhappiness are leading emotional factors that take a heavy toll when it comes to heart disease. The National Institute of Mental Health has extensive research and materials on this subject. I encourage you to take a brief moment and click on the link to their website.
If you have already been diagnosed with cardiovascular disease and you find that you are increasingly depressed, what can you do? First, don’t ignore your symptoms. We have many agencies here in Franklin County that can provide assistance to cope with and manage depression. You may also become more aware of your internal feelings and symptoms of depression through a visit to your local Columbus Public Library branch. Just because you feel out of sorts doesn’t always point the finger at being depressed. While self-awareness is a start, seeking the advice of a trained professional is the best way to handle any situation related to mind-body health.
Increasingly, heart specific facilities such as McConnell Heart Health Center in Columbus, Ohio offer courses as a first line of defense for cardiovascular patients, educating them not only in exercise modalities, but balancing diet and mental health so that recovery from disease or avoidance of exacerbating disease can be achieved. If your romantic relationship is the source of your discontent there are many qualified relationship counselors that can help you protect your heart happiness from that angle. Every relationship has its ups and downs, but when you are in a stagnant state and both parties are unhappy it is not a healthy state to be in. Being balanced and healthy is the overall goal, so get a wellness check for your heart’s happiness today. You’ll be glad you did! Until next time – good health to you!
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