Every 34 seconds, someone in the U.S. dies from heart disease. New research shows mental health can make that clock move even faster. Stress, depression, and anxiety can raise the risk of heart disease by up to 100%. Conditions like PTSD, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder also increase the chance of developing heart disease and worsen outcomes after diagnosis.
The link runs through the body’s stress systems. When they are out of balance, inflammation rises. Blood pressure climbs. Metabolism strains. Over time, this damage accelerates plaque buildup and disrupts heart rhythm.
This Labor Day is a reminder to care for body and mind. Manage blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar. Prioritize mental health care and steady sleep. Move daily. Limit alcohol and nicotine. If you have persistent stress, low mood, panic, or trauma symptoms, talk with your doctor. Treating mental health is heart care.
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