A recent study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association suggests that treating mental health conditions could lead to better outcomes for heart disease patients. Conducted by researchers at Ohio State University, the study examined over 1,500 subjects with known heart disease. The results showed that those who received medication and psychotherapy for anxiety or depression were less likely to be readmitted to the hospital or visit an emergency room. This highlights the importance of addressing mental health as a way to improve overall health.
Dr. Mallika Marshall, an Emmy-award-winning journalist and physician, has been the HealthWatch Reporter for CBS Boston/WBZ-TV for over 20 years. She is a practicing physician board-certified in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, serving on staff at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital. Dr. Marshall works on the frontlines caring for patients with COVID-19 at MGH Chelsea Urgent Care and the MGH Revere Health Center. She is also a host and contributing editor for Harvard Health Publications.
Physical and mental health are closely linked, especially when it comes to heart health. Anxiety and depression can lead to poor sleep, restlessness, hopelessness, inactivity, substance use, and poor diet choices, which can either cause chronic health conditions or worsen existing ones. Addressing mental health conditions can have a positive impact on overall health outcomes, including heart disease management. It is crucial that healthcare providers prioritize addressing mental health alongside physical symptoms when treating patients with heart disease to improve their overall wellbeing
