Can Depression Increase Your Risk For Heart Disease?

In this fast-paced, interconnected world, the demands and pressures of your day-to-day lives often overshadow your mental well-being. From work stress to societal expectations, your emotional and psychological health can be devastatingly affected. Therefore, it is high time to acknowledge the significance of mental health just as you look after your physical health. After all, the mind requires care, nourishment, and attention in the same way as the body.

Luckily, with the passage of time, there has been a positive shift in the way people address mental health. They are becoming more aware of the struggles that people with depression face and are even compassionate about it.

However, there’s still a long way to go. In this article, let's know more about depression, its underlying causes, its consequences, and more.

What Is Depression?

Depression, a prevalent mental illness, impacts your overall well-being and disrupts various aspects of your life. It is characterised by continuous sadness, diminished enjoyment, and a wide range of physical and emotional symptoms. Although societal attitudes towards depression have improved, numerous factors have emerged that contribute to its increasing rate.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 3.8% of the population, including 5% of adults and 5.7% of adults over 60 years, are estimated to experience depression.⁴

What Are The Symptoms Of Depression?

Depression shows up in different ways like -

• Poor concentration
• Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
• Hopelessness
• Suicidal thoughts
• Disrupted sleep patterns
• Changes in appetite
• Fatigue or low energy levels

Are Depression And Heart Disease Intertwined?

Depression and heart disease are closely intertwined and frequently coexist. Scientists have long recognised the connection between these two conditions. However, the focus has now shifted to understanding the underlying reasons behind this association. Recent studies have identified emotional distress and depression as new risk factors for coronary artery disease. Therefore, it is essential to explore the relationship between depression and heart disease - uncovering why depression causes heart attacks and other cardiovascular issues.

The Relationship Between Depression And Heart Disease

The connection between depression and heart health is reciprocal in nature. This means that both depression and heart health can contribute to, or exacerbate, the other in a vicious cycle.

Depression should not be mistaken for ordinary mood fluctuations or typical responses to daily life experiences. It is more than feeling just sadness or a temporary bad mood. Individuals with depression commonly experience persistent low mood, difficulty concentrating, negative thoughts, reduced energy levels, changes in appetite, heightened stress, and a loss of pleasure in previously enjoyable activities. Such symptoms can significantly disrupt daily functioning, relationships, and important activities like going to school or work.

There are several other ways in which depression impacts your physical well-being, especially your heart health -

• The lifestyle changes and unhealthy eating habits associated with depression are traditional risk factors for cardiovascular issues. These include leading a sedentary lifestyle, being overweight, smoking, having a poor diet, overeating, excessive alcohol consumption, etc. Additionally, neglecting important medications also plays a role in increasing these risks.
• Depression can also give rise to low-grade inflammation. This inflammation can lead to the arteries getting clogged, elevate the production of stress hormones, and promote the clotting of blood.
• Furthermore, people with depression may experience disturbances in their nervous system and hormonal balance, increasing the likelihood of heart rhythm disturbances known as ‘arrhythmia’.
• It's important to note that certain medications used to treat mental disorders can also contribute to an increased risk of heart disease. Some of these medications may lead to weight gain, which puts additional strain on the arteries, raises blood pressure, and contribute to developing risk factors associated with heart disease.

How Can You Manage Both Depression And Lifestyle?

There are various ways in which you can better deal with depression and ensure a healthy living

Balanced Diet
Maintain a balanced diet. It not only enhances your overall well-being but also contributes to better heart health and reduces the risk of heart disease.

Physical Activities
You can also try engaging in regular exercise, as it is not only a valuable therapy for depression but also benefits heart health.

Control Smoking And Consumption Of Alcohol
It is essential to quit smoking and consume alcohol in lesser amounts, as they increase the risk of heart disease and can cause bouts of depression too.

Consult A Doctor
It will be beneficial to have open discussions with your doctor. They can recommend healthier relaxation techniques to help you reduce your stress levels.

Dealing with depression poses significant challenges, both emotionally and financially. Having a health insurance policy in place can be beneficial in getting the necessary medical help without draining your wallet. But, does health insurance cover depression?

Is Mental Health Covered By Insurance In India?

Yes, the good news is that mental illnesses and psychological disorders are covered by health insurance in India as per the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017.

The significance of mental health and the necessity for insurance coverage of mental health treatments have come to the front. Recognising this, the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has mandated all insurance companies to cover mental health treatment under health insurance plans. As a result, many health insurance providers now cover a wide range of mental health services, such as therapy, counselling, psychiatric consultations, and inpatient or outpatient treatment programs.

⚠️ Note: The specific coverage and benefits for mental health services may vary depending on the insurance plan and provider. Thus, you must carefully review the terms and conditions of your insurance plan to understand its extent of coverage.

Conclusion

Depression affects our lives in multiple ways, but it is not impossible to overcome it when addressed on time. Fortunately, health insurance plans in India covers depression, ensuring both protection and easy access to resources in times of need to ensure you are protected. Remember, no matter the odds, necessary support is always available to help you overcome mental health issues and reclaim your life.

Source
⁴https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/depression