THE HEART - MIND CONNECTION: HOW MENTAL HEALTH AFFECTS YOUR HEART

February is American Heart Month, a time to focus on cardiovascular health. While diet and exercise are often highlighted, there’s another key factor in heart health that doesn’t get as much attention—mental well-being. The connection between mental health and heart health is powerful, with stress, anxiety, and depression playing significant roles in cardiovascular disease.

At Polara Health, we believe in whole-person care, recognizing that mental health is just as important as physical health. Understanding the relationship between your mind and heart can help you take steps to improve both.

How Mental Health Impacts Heart Health

1. Chronic Stress Raises Blood Pressure

Stress triggers the body’s fight-or-flight response, releasing hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. While these hormones are helpful in short bursts, chronic stress keeps your body in a constant state of high alert. Over time, this can:
✅ Increase blood pressure
✅ Cause inflammation in blood vessels
✅ Raise the risk of heart disease

If you often feel overwhelmed or anxious, it’s essential to find healthy ways to reduce stress before it negatively impacts your heart.

2. Depression and Heart Disease: A Two-Way Street

People with depression are more likely to develop heart disease, and those who have suffered a heart attack are at higher risk of depression. This cycle can make recovery and prevention more challenging. Symptoms of depression, such as fatigue, low motivation, and poor sleep, can also lead to unhealthy habits like overeating, smoking, or avoiding physical activity, all of which contribute to heart problems.

3. Anxiety and Panic Attacks Strain the Heart

Anxiety disorders can cause:
✔ Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
✔ Increased blood pressure
✔ Higher levels of stress hormones

For individuals with existing heart conditions, frequent anxiety can worsen symptoms and increase the likelihood of complications.

Taking Charge: Protecting Your Mental and Heart Health

The good news? Managing mental health can significantly improve heart health! Here are some simple but effective ways to protect both:

1. Practice Stress Management Techniques

Find activities that help you relax and lower stress levels, such as:
🧘 Mindfulness and meditation – Proven to lower blood pressure and reduce anxiety.
🏃 Exercise – Physical activity releases endorphins that improve mood and heart function.
📖 Journaling – Writing down thoughts and emotions helps process stress more effectively.

2. Build Strong Social Connections

Having a supportive community improves both mental and heart health. Loneliness has been linked to higher risks of heart disease and mental illness. Make an effort to:
👥 Stay connected with friends and family.
📞 Reach out when feeling overwhelmed—talking to someone can help ease stress.
❤️ Join a support group if you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or heart-related conditions.

3. Improve Sleep Habits

Lack of sleep increases stress hormones and puts extra strain on the heart. Aim for:
✔ 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night.
✔ A consistent sleep schedule.
✔ Limiting screen time before bed to improve sleep quality.

4. Seek Professional Help When Needed

If stress, anxiety, or depression are affecting your daily life, don’t hesitate to seek professional support. Therapy, counseling, and medication (when necessary) can play a crucial role in improving mental and heart health.

Your Mind and Heart Work Together—Take Care of Both

The connection between mental and heart health is clear: what’s good for your mind is good for your heart. This February, as we focus on cardiovascular wellness, let’s also prioritize mental well-being. Small lifestyle changes can have a big impact, and resources are available to help.

At Polara Health, we offer mental health support to help individuals navigate stress, anxiety, and depression—because caring for your heart starts with caring for your mind.

Need Support? We’re Here to Help.

If you or someone you love is struggling, Polara Health provides resources and crisis support to help you take the next step toward well-being. Visit our website or call us today.

Your heart and mind deserve the best care—start today! ❤️

928-445-5211 | polarahealth.com