How low spirits can harm heart

Thursday September 16th, 2010

People with heart disease who suffer from depression face a massively increased risk of dying, British researchers warn today.

Having the two problems together quadruples the risk of dying, according to the latest findings of a study of some 6,000 British civil servants.

Having heart disease alone increased the risk of dying but by much less - 67 per cent - according to the report in the journal Heart.

Experts said the findings highlighted the benefits of a healthy lifestyle in combating heart disease - as exercise and good diet may also improve mood.

The conclusions come from an analysis of some 170 deaths over a five year period.

The research is the latest to highlight the impact of psychological health on the heart. Another recent study linked long hours of work - without exercise - on an increase in risk.

Amy Thompson, of the British Heart Foundation, which helped to fund the research, said: "Enjoying regular exercise and eating a healthy, balanced diet can help if you are feeling low, so, good news for your mental health as well as your heart health.

"Whether or not you have heart disease, if you feel depressed it's essential to talk to your doctor."

Effects of depressive symptoms and coronary heart disease and their interactive associations on mortality in middle-aged adults. Heart, Hermann Nabi et al, 2010, doi 10.1136/hrt.2010.198507

Tags: Diet & Food | Fitness | Heart Health | Mental Health | UK News

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